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TANF Assistance for Single Mothers in South Carolina

The Ultimate Guide to TANF (Family Independence) for Single Mothers in South Carolina

Last updated: August 2025

South Carolina’s TANF program is called Family Independence (FI). It’s run by the South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS). This guide gives you the fastest action steps, what to expect, the paperwork you’ll need, and where to get help if anything stalls.


South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS) — homepage — official program owner and application starting point.

ACF TANF overview — federal program basics — what TANF is and what federal rules apply.

CBPP summary of TANF benefit levels — independent nonprofit with up-to-date state comparisons (use this to cross-check cash amounts while you confirm with DSS).

Quick Help (Start Here)

  • Apply online through DSS: go to the South Carolina DSS homepage and click “Apply for Assistance” to start your Family Independence (FI) application.
  • Or apply in person: use the “Local County Offices” directory linked on the DSS homepage to find your county office, hours, and directions.
  • Prepare the right papers before you start (photo ID, Social Security numbers or proof you applied, proof of South Carolina address, child birth certificates, lease and utility bills, proof of income or no income). See the “Documents You’ll Need” section below.
  • Don’t wait on food: apply for SNAP at the same time. Use the USDA SNAP State Directory — South Carolina to reach the SC SNAP application through DSS.
  • Safety first: if child support cooperation would put you or your kids at risk, ask DSS for a “good cause” exemption due to domestic violence. See federal guidance: Child Support Good Cause — ACF.
  • Stuck or confused? Call 211 to reach SC 211 for local help finding food, shelters, bill help, and application assistance.

TANF in South Carolina at a Glance (Family Independence)

TANF in South Carolina is called Family Independence (FI). The cash amount is modest, and most parents must engage in work or work-related activities. FI can also connect you to child care help, job services, and transportation support tied to your work plan.

What it is Family Independence (FI) — South Carolina’s TANF cash assistance program
Who runs it South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS)
What it pays Modest monthly cash assistance. Recent independent analysis shows the max for a family of three in SC around $280/month; always confirm current amounts with DSS payment standards. Source: CBPP state TANF benefits table.
Who can qualify South Carolina residents who are pregnant or caring for a child under 18 (or under 19 if still in high school), meet income/resource rules, and meet work rules (with some exceptions). See ACF TANF basics.
Time limits Federal lifetime limit is 60 months (5 years). South Carolina may also apply shorter state time clocks in some cases; ask DSS about current SC-specific limits and exemptions. Federal law citation: 42 U.S.C. § 608(a)(7).
Work requirements Generally 20 hours/week if your youngest child is under 6, and 30 hours/week if 6 or older (federal baseline; SC’s FI program will give you a written plan). See ACF TANF overview.
Where to apply Start at DSS — Apply for Assistance (via homepage) or visit your county DSS office (find it via the “Local County Offices” directory linked on the DSS homepage).

Who Qualifies (Eligibility Basics)

The fastest way to know is to apply. Eligibility is based on family makeup, income, resources, and your willingness to follow your work plan (unless exempt). SC DSS makes the final call.

Most families will need to meet these:

  • You live in South Carolina and plan to stay.
  • You’re pregnant or caring for a child under 18 (or under 19 if still in high school).
  • Your household income is under South Carolina’s FI standard and resources are within limits. (Exact income/resource limits can change. DSS will count most income, but some income is disregarded to encourage work.)
  • You agree to participate in work activities if required (job search, training, community service, or employment) as assigned by FI staff.
  • You cooperate with child support unless you have “good cause” not to (for safety or other approved reasons). See ACF: Good Cause for Child Support Cooperation.

Table: Eligibility Checkpoints (FI/TANF — South Carolina)

Area What DSS looks at Reality check
Residency You live in SC and can prove address Bring a lease or a utility bill. Homeless applicants can still qualify — tell DSS your situation.
Household A child in the home or pregnancy Include all kids you’re responsible for. Let DSS know about temporarily absent parents.
Income Wages, child support received, benefits, some types of unearned income Not all income is counted. Tell DSS about variable hours/tips. Bring pay stubs, and a signed employer note if you just started.
Resources Cash in bank, some vehicles, other assets (with certain exclusions) Vehicles and household goods are often partly or fully excluded. Don’t assume you’re over — ask.
Work rules Work/activities 20–30 hours/week, unless exempt If your child is under 6, school/child care arrangements matter. Ask for help with child care or transportation tied to your plan.
Child support Must cooperate unless good cause If there’s domestic violence or safety risks, ask about “good cause” and don’t delay telling DSS.

Sources:

How Much Money You Could Get

Reality: FI cash is modest. It will not cover a full rent in most SC cities, but it can help stabilize you while you line up work, child care, SNAP, and other supports.

  • For context, independent analysis shows South Carolina’s maximum TANF cash payment for a family of three is about $280/month (most recent CBPP state comparison; always verify with DSS because states update their “payment standards”). Source: CBPP — TANF Cash Benefits by State.
  • The exact amount you receive depends on your household size, countable income, and South Carolina’s current payment standards. DSS will calculate the amount during your interview and after they verify your documents.

What else FI can provide:

  • Supportive services connected to your work plan (for example, help paying for uniforms, tools, bus passes, or mileage to get to a job search site or training). Ask your FI worker what’s available in your county.
  • Referrals to the SC Voucher child care program so you can meet work or training hours. See SC Child Care — SC Voucher for Families.
  • Referrals to community partners for job placement and training. DSS links you to local services in your county office.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your FI cash amount is lower than you expected, make sure DSS has your latest pay stubs and that your child care and transportation costs are considered where allowed. Ask your caseworker to explain the budget.
  • Apply for SNAP right away to increase your food budget: USDA SNAP State Directory — South Carolina.
  • Call 211 to find local rental, utility, and fuel assistance while FI is pending or if it’s not enough: SC 211.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

Start here. The sooner you submit, the sooner the clock starts on your case.

  • Apply online: go to the DSS homepage and select “Apply for Assistance.” Choose “Family Independence (FI).”
  • Or apply in person: from the DSS homepage, open the “Local County Offices” directory and bring your documents to your county office. If you don’t see the directory, call 211 and ask for your county DSS location.
  • Phone or in-person interview: DSS will contact you to schedule an interview and an orientation for the work program if required. Keep your phone on and voicemail available.
  • Submit verification documents: upload online, bring them to the office, or send them as instructed by the worker.
  • Decision timeline: most TANF cases take about 30–45 days after you submit a complete application. If you’re in crisis, tell DSS — some help (like referrals, SNAP, or child care) may move faster.

Table: Documents You’ll Need

Category What to bring Tip
Identity Photo ID (driver’s license or state ID), or other ID If you don’t have ID, ask about alternatives (school ID, voter card, or a sworn statement).
Social Security SSNs for you and children, or proof of application You can apply for SSNs at SSA; bring the receipt if still pending.
Residency Lease, utility bill, or shelter letter Homeless? A letter from a shelter or a statement from a service provider can work.
Income Recent pay stubs, employer letter, unemployment benefits letter, child support received If paid in cash, ask your employer for a signed statement with hours and pay.
Child status Birth certificates, school enrollment, proof of pregnancy If you don’t have a birth certificate, DSS can help you request it.
Expenses (if asked) Child care bills, transportation costs related to work plan Keep receipts; ask about mileage reimbursement if traveling to activities.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • No response by day 30? Call your county DSS office (find on the DSS homepage via the “Local County Offices” directory) and ask for status.
  • If delayed past 45 days, ask to speak with a supervisor or request help from SC Legal Services (1-888-346-5592) for guidance on your rights and appeals.

What Happens After You Apply

After you submit, DSS checks your paperwork, schedules your interview, and sets up a work plan if you’re required to participate. Then you’ll receive a written notice approving or denying your case, and if approved, when your first payment is coming.

Table: Timeline and What to Expect

Step What happens What you can do
Application submitted You get confirmation online or a stamped copy in person Save your confirmation. Keep your phone on and voicemail clear.
Interview scheduled Phone or in-person interview If you miss it, call back immediately to reschedule.
Orientation/work plan You may be assigned job search, classes, or other activities Ask about child care (SC Voucher) and transportation help so you can attend.
Decision issued Approval or denial notice in mail/online If denied, read the reason. You can appeal.
Payment method Benefits are loaded to your EBT cash card monthly Ask how and when to set/change your PIN and where to use it.

Sources:

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your interview was scheduled at a bad time (work shift, no child care), call your worker and request a new time.
  • If you get a denial and don’t understand it, call your worker, then contact SC Legal Services (1-888-346-5592) about a fair hearing and deadlines.

Work Requirements and Good Cause Exceptions

Most parents on FI must engage in work activities assigned by DSS. The plan is tailored to you — job search, GED, training, community service, or work. Federal rules set the baseline hours; SC applies those through your FI plan.

  • Expect about 20 hours/week if your youngest child is under 6.
  • Expect about 30 hours/week if your youngest child is 6 or older.
  • Tell DSS immediately if child care falls through, your schedule changes, or you’re sick. You may be able to make up hours or adjust your plan.
  • Domestic violence: if work activities or child support cooperation would risk your safety, ask about good cause and temporary waivers or alternative activities. See ACF Good Cause guidance.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re sanctioned for missing hours, ask for a conciliation meeting to fix the issue. Keep proof (doctor notes, school closure notices, bus breakdowns).
  • If transportation or child care is the barrier, ask DSS in writing for supportive services connected to your FI plan (bus passes, mileage, or SC Voucher child care). See SC Child Care — SC Voucher.

Time Limits and Sanctions

Federal law limits TANF to 60 months lifetime with limited hardship exceptions. South Carolina may also apply a shorter state time clock or case closure rules for non-compliance. The exact details and any exemptions are explained in your FI paperwork.

  • Federal law on time limits and other conditions: 42 U.S.C. § 608.
  • If you’re approaching your time limit but still facing barriers (disability, domestic violence, no child care), talk to your worker about hardship exceptions or other programs before benefits end.

Sanctions (missed work plan hours or non-cooperation):

  • Sanctions can reduce or stop your FI cash.
  • You have the right to written notice and to fix the issue (conciliation) in many situations.
  • Keep all letters and deadlines; respond quickly.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

Using Your FI Cash (EBT Card)

Cash assistance is usually loaded monthly to an EBT cash card.

Do:

  • Use at stores for essentials.
  • Withdraw cash at ATMs if needed (watch ATM fees).
  • Save receipts and track your balance.

Don’t (federal law prohibits certain transactions):

  • No cash withdrawals or purchases at liquor stores, casinos, or adult entertainment venues. See federal law: 42 U.S.C. § 608(a)(12).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Lost or stolen card? Call the EBT customer service number printed on the back of your card immediately to freeze and replace it.
  • If your card doesn’t work or benefits didn’t load, contact your DSS worker the same day and ask for a replacement card or investigation.

Real-World Examples (What this looks like in practice)

Example 1 — Work-first plan with child care:

  • A mother in Greenville with two children applies for FI and SNAP at the same time through DSS online. Her assigned FI plan is job search 20 hours/week plus a resume workshop. She asks for SC Voucher to pay a licensed provider during job search. With reliable child care and bus passes through supportive services, she finishes the plan and starts part-time work within a month. Her FI amount steps down as earnings increase, and she keeps SNAP and WIC to stabilize her budget.

Example 2 — Good cause for safety:

  • A parent in Charleston asks FI to waive child support cooperation because of past violence. She provides a protective order and a letter from an advocate. DSS grants good cause, keeping her safe while she participates in training hours that can be done remotely. See policy basics: ACF Good Cause.

Example 3 — Fixing a sanction:

  • A single mother in Horry County misses two days of assigned work hours due to a sudden school closure. She brings the school closure notice to her worker and asks for conciliation. The sanction is lifted, and she makes up hours the next week with approved activities.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Table: Frequent Pitfalls and How to Fix Them

Mistake Why it matters Fix it fast
Missing the interview call Case can be denied for “failure to complete interview” Call your worker the same day to reschedule; keep your phone on and voicemail working.
Not reporting new income Overpayments lead to collections and possible sanctions Report new jobs or hours changes within a few days. Save emails or fax receipts.
Skipping assigned hours without notice Sanctions can cut or stop your cash If something happens, call before your shift or that day. Ask for conciliation to cure.
Assuming you’re over income Rules exclude some income or part of it Apply anyway; let DSS do the calculation. Bring all paperwork.
Forgetting child care/transport barriers Without supports, you fall behind on hours Tell DSS in writing; ask for SC Voucher and transportation help.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you get a sanction notice, ask in writing for a conciliation/meeting to resolve it, and contact SC Legal Services (1-888-346-5592) if you need help understanding the notice or filing an appeal.

Plan B: Other Programs to Combine with FI

TANF cash alone is not enough. Stack programs to cover food, child care, health, and utilities.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If online portals are confusing or you don’t have internet, call 211 or visit your county DSS office for in-person help.
  • For immigrants with questions about public charge and benefits, see USCIS — Public Charge Resources before you decide.

Local Organizations, Charities, and Support

These are reputable, established groups with on-the-ground help in South Carolina.

Diverse Communities: Tailored Tips and Resources

LGBTQ+ single mothers:

  • If you face discrimination when seeking child care, housing, or work tied to your FI plan, document it and report to your DSS worker and legal aid. SCCADVASA member agencies are LGBTQ+ inclusive for safety planning: SCCADVASA — Get Help.
  • For name/gender marker issues on documents, legal aid may help: South Carolina Legal Services (1-888-346-5592).

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children:

  • Ask DSS for reasonable modifications to your FI work plan if you have a disability (different hours, remote activities, extra time).
  • Children with disabilities may qualify for SSI; check Social Security’s SSI for children and ask for proof letters to share with DSS.

Veteran single mothers:

Immigrant and refugee single moms:

  • Eligibility depends on your immigration status and the child’s status. Some non-citizen children and “qualified” immigrants can be eligible. When unsure, speak with legal aid before withdrawing an application: SC Legal Services (1-888-346-5592) and see USCIS Public Charge.

Tribal-specific resources:

  • If you are a member of a federally recognized tribe living in SC, ask DSS whether any tribal TANF or tribal services apply. Many tribal TANF programs are region-specific; DSS can advise on what’s available in South Carolina.

Rural single moms with limited access:

  • Tell DSS if you have transportation barriers; ask for phone interviews, mailed forms, or help with transportation in your FI plan.
  • Use 211 and food bank networks to bridge long drives to county offices: SC 211, Harvest Hope Food Bank.

Single fathers:

  • Fathers caring for their children can receive FI on the same terms. Apply the same way at DSS. If you face a custody/verification snag, ask for help from SC Legal Services (1-888-346-5592).

Language access:

  • DSS must provide free language assistance. Tell your worker your preferred language. Bring any letters you receive and ask for translation. If you’re denied language help, contact SC Legal Services (1-888-346-5592).

Resources by Region (Where to Apply In Person)

DSS has county offices across South Carolina. Use the “Local County Offices” directory linked from the DSS homepage to get addresses, hours, and phone numbers for your county.

  • Midlands (Richland, Lexington, Sumter, Orangeburg) — Columbia area
  • Lowcountry (Charleston, Berkeley, Dorchester, Beaufort, Jasper) — Charleston area
  • Upstate (Greenville, Spartanburg, Anderson, Pickens) — Greenville/Spartanburg area
  • Pee Dee (Horry, Florence, Darlington, Marion) — Myrtle Beach/Florence area
  • Catawba/York region (York, Lancaster, Chester) — Rock Hill area

If you can’t locate the directory link on the DSS site, call 211 or visit the DSS homepage and search for “Local County Offices.”

City-Specific FAQs (South Carolina)

Columbia (Richland County)

  • Where do I apply in person?

Use the “Local County Offices” directory from the DSS homepage to find the Richland County DSS office address, hours, and phone. Bring your documents to speed things up.

  • How long will it take?

Plan for about 30–45 days for a decision once DSS has your complete application and verification. If you need food now, apply for SNAP at the same time: USDA SNAP Directory.

Charleston (Charleston County)

  • Can I get help with child care while doing my FI work plan?

Yes. Ask your worker for SC Voucher tied to your FI plan. Details here: SC Child Care — SC Voucher.

  • What if I missed my interview?

Call the Charleston County DSS office (find via the DSS homepage) to reschedule right away. If denied for missing it, ask for reinstatement as soon as possible.

Greenville (Greenville County)

  • My boss pays cash. How do I prove income?

Ask for a signed employer letter showing hours, rate, and dates paid. Bring bank deposit records if you have them. DSS will guide you on acceptable proof.

  • I need help with the online application.

Visit your county DSS office in person (find via DSS homepage) or call 211 for local agencies that help with applications.

Myrtle Beach (Horry County)

  • I’m working seasonally. Does that matter?

Yes. Seasonal income counts, but not every dollar is counted the same. Apply and let DSS do the calculation. Ask how they budget irregular hours.

  • Where can I find food while I wait?

Check Lowcountry Food Bank for nearby pantries if in coastal counties, and Harvest Hope Food Bank for Pee Dee/Upstate areas. Call 211 for the closest pantry to your address.

Rock Hill (York County)

  • Can single dads apply for FI here?

Yes. Caregivers of children can apply regardless of gender. Go to the DSS homepage and use the county office directory to apply in person.

  • I lost my EBT cash card. What do I do?

Call the EBT customer service number on your paperwork right away to freeze and replace it. Then notify your DSS worker. If you don’t have the number, contact your county DSS office (via the DSS homepage).

Practical Budgeting Tip (Why stacking help matters)

South Carolina’s minimum wage is 7.25/hour∗∗(federalminimum,whichSCfollows).Source:[U.S.DepartmentofLabor—MinimumWage](https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/minimum−wage).Evenfull−timeat∗∗7.25/hour** (federal minimum, which SC follows). Source: [U.S. Department of Labor — Minimum Wage](https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/minimum-wage). Even full-time at **7.25 won’t cover rent, food, and child care in most SC cities. That’s why combining FI with SNAP, WIC, SC Voucher child care, and LIHEAP is the realistic path to stability while you job hunt and move up in hours and pay.

How to Work with DSS (and Keep Your Case Moving)

  • Keep deadlines visible — post them on your fridge or phone calendar.
  • Tell DSS quickly if your phone number, address, job, or child care changes.
  • Save everything — letters, email confirmations, fax receipts.
  • If something is unclear, ask your worker to explain your budget and work plan in writing.
  • If you hit a wall, ask for a supervisor and call SC Legal Services at 1-888-346-5592 for advice on next steps.

“What If” Scenarios

Table: If This Happens, Do This Next

Situation Immediate step Back-up plan
No response after you applied Call your county DSS office and ask for status; verify they have all documents Ask for a supervisor; call SC Legal Services: 1-888-346-5592 if deadlines are passing
Denied for missing the interview Call the office and ask to reschedule; explain the reason and provide proof Reapply if needed; ask 211 for help getting to your appointment
Sanction warning letter Request a conciliation meeting; bring proof of the barrier Ask for supportive services (child care/transport); if denied, appeal in writing
Approaching time limit Ask about hardship exceptions and transitions to other programs Apply for SNAP, LIHEAP, child care, and Medicaid to stabilize your budget
Safety concerns involving the other parent Request “good cause” for child support cooperation with proof Seek help from local DV program via SCCADVASA — Get Help

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do I have to cooperate with child support to get FI?

Generally yes, unless you have “good cause” due to safety risks such as domestic violence. See ACF Good Cause guidance.

  • How long can I receive FI in South Carolina?

Federal law caps TANF at 60 months lifetime with limited exceptions. South Carolina may have additional state rules or shorter clocks — ask DSS about your time used and any hardship waivers. See law: 42 U.S.C. § 608(a)(7).

  • Will FI affect my immigration status?

It depends on your status and which benefits you receive. Review USCIS Public Charge guidance and speak to legal aid if needed before making decisions.

  • Can I work and still get FI?

Possibly, yes. TANF allows some earnings disregards. Report all income; DSS will calculate whether you still qualify and for how much.

  • How do I get child care so I can meet work hours?

Ask your worker about SC Voucher linked to your FI plan. Learn more: SC Child Care — SC Voucher for Families.

Tables You Can Save

Table: Quick Application Checklist

Task Do this Done
Start the application Online via DSS homepage ☐
Find your county office Use “Local County Offices” from DSS homepage ☐
Get documents together ID, SSNs, birth certificates, proof of address, income ☐
Ask about child care help Request SC Voucher for assigned hours ☐
Apply for SNAP and WIC SNAP directory, SC WIC ☐
Track deadlines Note interview date and document due dates ☐

Table: Core Links (Bookmark These)

Need Link
Apply for FI/TANF South Carolina DSS — homepage (Apply for Assistance)
Find county DSS office South Carolina DSS — homepage (Local County Offices directory)
SNAP (Food Stamps) USDA SNAP State Directory — South Carolina
WIC SC DHEC — WIC
Child care help SC Child Care — SC Voucher
Energy/utility help SC Office of Economic Opportunity (LIHEAP)
Unemployment SC DEW — Unemployment Insurance
Legal help South Carolina Legal Services — 1-888-346-5592

Table: Work Rules Snapshot

If your youngest child is… Expected weekly hours Notes
Under 6 About 20 hours/week Ask for child care (SC Voucher) and transportation support
6 or older About 30 hours/week School schedules and aftercare matter — tell your worker
Safety risk present Ask for “good cause” or a modified plan See ACF Good Cause

What to Do If You’re Denied

  • Read the denial letter carefully. It tells you why and the deadline to appeal.
  • Fix simple issues (missing documents) quickly and ask for your case to be reopened if allowed.
  • If you want to appeal, do it in writing by the deadline in the letter (deadlines are strict — often 10–30 days, depending on the issue). Keep copies.
  • Get help: SC Legal Services (1-888-346-5592).

Source Notes and Verification

All links above go to official government sites or established nonprofits.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from South Carolina Department of Social Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified August 2025, next review April 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 48 hours.

Disclaimer

Program rules, payment standards, and application portals change. Always confirm current eligibility, benefit amounts, deadlines, and office locations directly with the South Carolina Department of Social Services or the official agencies linked in this guide. This guide is for general information and is not legal advice.

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