Workplace Rights and Pregnancy Protection for Single Mothers in South Carolina

Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection for Single Mothers in South Carolina

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is built for single moms in South Carolina who need clear answers now. It covers your workplace rights during pregnancy and after birth, steps to protect your job, and where to get fast help with income, food, health care, child care, and utility shutoffs while you stabilize work. Throughout, you’ll see short action steps, real timelines, and direct contacts.

If you see a phone label or a heading with a colon, the label right before it is bolded on purpose to help you scan quickly.

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

Call for legal help about work accommodations now: Reach the free helpline at the federal civil-rights agency, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), at 1-800-669-4000; or the South Carolina state agency, the South Carolina Human Affairs Commission (SCHAC), at 803-737-7800; or the national workers’ helpline A Better Balance at 1-833-633-3222 to get guidance on the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act and South Carolina’s Pregnancy Accommodations Act before you talk to your boss. (eeoc.gov)
Stop a utility shutoff today: Ask your utility for a payment plan, then apply for energy help the same day through the South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff (ORS) consumer line 1-800-922-1531, your county’s LIHEAP (energy bill help) provider, and your regional food bank like Harvest Hope Food Bank. If the company isn’t helping, call the Public Service Commission (PSC) Complaint Page for the formal process. (ors.sc.gov)
Get health coverage and WIC fast: Apply for pregnancy Medicaid (Healthy Connections) with SCDHHS at 1-888-549-0820 (TTY 888-842-3620), start WIC at 1-855-472-3432, and if you need someone to walk you through applications, call SC Thrive at 1-800-726-8774. These programs reduce crisis and help you keep working. (scdhhs.gov)

Quick help box — keep these 5 contacts handy

Work pumping breaks & pay questions: U.S. Department of Labor Wage & Hour Division (WHD) 1-866-4US-WAGE; local WHD offices: Columbia 803-765-5981; North Charleston 1-866-487-9243. How to file with WHD. (dol.gov)
Pregnant Workers Fairness Act questions: EEOC PWFA resources, EEOC pump-at-work comparison, Find your nearest EEOC office. (eeoc.gov)
SC workplace safety & retaliation for reporting hazards: SC OSHA (LLR) 803-896-7665; retaliation complaints within 30 days via SC OSHA Whistleblower; general LLR wage line 803-896-7756. (osha.llr.sc.gov)
Child care scholarships so you can work or train: SC Child Care Scholarships (SC DSS), Apply/track in DSS portal, help finding care via SC Child Care Resource & Referral 1-888-335-1002. (scchildcare.org)
Unemployment (if separated or hours cut): SC Department of Employment & Workforce (DEW) UI Customer Service 1-866-831-1724; read Claimant Handbook and “Able and available” rules before you apply. (dew.sc.gov)

What’s protected at work in South Carolina right now

South Carolina workers have strong protections through both federal and state law. You can use the law that gives you the best result. Call to confirm coverage and deadlines before you file anything.

Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA): Most employers with 15+ employees must provide reasonable accommodations for pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, unless it causes undue hardship. The EEOC’s final regulation took effect in 2024 and gives plain-language examples like extra water/restroom breaks, seating, light duty, schedule changes, and time off for prenatal visits or recovery. File an EEOC charge within 180 or 300 days depending on location. (eeoc.gov)
South Carolina Pregnancy Accommodations Act (2018): Employers with 15+ employees must make reasonable accommodations for pregnancy, childbirth, and lactation, and they cannot force you onto leave if another accommodation works. Employers must post and give notice of these rights. File with SCHAC or cross-file with EEOC. See the law text in SC Code §1-13-80(A)(4) and SCHAC guidelines in Regulation 65-30. (law.justia.com)
PUMP Act (Break Time for Nursing Mothers under FLSA): Most workers are entitled to reasonable break time and a private, non-bathroom space to express milk for one year after birth. Small employers under 50 can claim undue hardship, but many still must comply. For pay: time counts as hours worked if you’re not fully relieved of duty; call WHD to check your situation. File with WHD or sue (special 10‑day notice rules apply only to private space claims). (dol.gov)
FMLA (job-protected leave): If you’re eligible, you get up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for pregnancy, prenatal care, recovery, or bonding. You must have 12 months of service, 1,250 hours, and work at a site with 50+ employees within 75 miles. Employers must give specific notices and designate your leave; see the 2025 update in DOL Fact Sheet #28D and medical certification rules in Fact Sheet #28G. (dol.gov)
Minimum wage and pay: South Carolina follows the federal minimum wage of $7.25/hour; unpaid wage claims can be filed under the state Payment of Wages Act with SCLLR Wages & Child Labor. For overtime, federal rules apply—call WHD if you think you’re misclassified. See DOL’s 2025 state minimum wage table showing South Carolina at the federal rate. (llr.sc.gov)
Important court update (2025): A federal court in Louisiana vacated part of the EEOC’s PWFA rule related to abortion accommodations; most of the PWFA remains in effect. If your request concerns time off for an abortion, ask EEOC or a lawyer how the ruling affects your case in South Carolina. (reuters.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your boss says “no,” ask for the reason in writing and contact EEOC or SCHAC the same day. If your issue is pumping time/space or pay, call WHD at 1-866-487-9243 and request a complaint intake; WHD says a local office will reach you within two business days. (dol.gov)

Quick Rights Comparison Table

Law	Who’s Covered	What You Can Ask For	Who Enforces	Deadline to Act
PWFA (federal)	Most employers 15+	Light duty, schedule changes, extra breaks, time off for appointments or recovery	EEOC	180 or 300 days from issue
SC Pregnancy Accommodations Act	Employers 15+ in SC	Similar to PWFA; lactation space not a bathroom stall	SCHAC	180 days (state), or cross-file with EEOC
PUMP Act (FLSA)	Most employees (few exceptions)	Reasonable pumping breaks; private non-bathroom space	WHD (DOL)	2 years (recommend reporting ASAP)
FMLA	Eligible workers (12 months/1,250 hrs/50+)	Up to 12 weeks unpaid, job-protected leave	WHD (DOL)	2–3 years for claims; use employer forms quickly

Sources: EEOC PWFA, SCHAC statute, DOL PUMP, DOL FMLA. (eeoc.gov)

How to ask for a pregnancy or postpartum accommodation

Start with the exact request you need to keep working safely. Keep it short and in writing.

Step-by-step:
- Write a short request with doctor support if needed: Mention your condition and the change you need for a set time. Use the phrase “reasonable accommodation” under the PWFA and the SC Pregnancy Accommodations Act. Attach a note only if your employer reasonably needs it. (eeoc.gov)
- Offer options: Suggest easy choices like more breaks, a stool, lifting limits, or modified schedule based on EEOC examples and SC Regulation 65-30. Keep a copy. (eeoc.gov)
- Escalate if ignored: If you get silence or pushback, call EEOC 1-800-669-4000, SCHAC 803-737-7800, or A Better Balance 1-833-633-3222 for next steps and deadlines. (eeoc.gov)
Sample one-paragraph request you can copy:
- Subject: Pregnancy-related reasonable accommodation request
- I’m requesting a reasonable accommodation for a pregnancy-related limitation under the federal Pregnant Workers Fairness Act and the South Carolina Pregnancy Accommodations Act. My provider recommends I avoid lifting over 20 pounds and take an extra 10-minute break every 2–3 hours. I propose using a cart for heavy items and adding one extra rest break per half shift through six weeks postpartum. Please let me know by [date] if these solutions work, or if you need limited medical documentation.

What to do if this doesn’t work: File a charge with EEOC or SCHAC immediately to preserve the 180/300-day deadline; you can try mediation. For lactation break failures, contact WHD; they usually reach back within two business days. (dol.gov)

Pumping milk at work: your rights and fast fixes

Your employer must provide a private space (not a bathroom), shielded from view, free from intrusion, and available as needed. You’re entitled to reasonable break time for one year after birth. Under South Carolina law, pregnancy accommodations also include lactation support. If you’re salaried/exempt, your employer cannot dock your salary for pump breaks. If you’re hourly, time is unpaid unless you work during the break.

Action steps: Ask in writing for a private room with a chair, outlet, flat surface, and nearby sink if available; cite both the PUMP Act and the SC Pregnancy Accommodations Act. If stalled, compare rights using the EEOC’s PWFA vs. PUMP chart and then call WHD to file. (dol.gov)
Need feeding help: Use peer and pro support from the SC Breastfeeding Coalition, clinic referrals from WIC, and local groups listed by SCBC. Ask for large-print materials if you need them. (scbreastfeeds.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: For space issues, you may need to give a 10-day notice before suing, but not before filing with WHD—ask WHD which route fits. If you’re punished for asking, that’s retaliation; document it and call WHD or EEOC. (dol.gov)

If your manager says “we don’t do light duty”

Both federal and state law say your boss must consider reasonable accommodations unless it’s an undue hardship. You don’t have to accept an unsafe “accommodation,” and you can’t be forced onto leave if another solution works.

Your levers: Point to PWFA examples, cite SC’s statute, and ask for an interactive meeting. If they deny because they’d have to “create a new job” or “hire extra staff,” ask them to explain why less costly options won’t work. If you’re told to resign, call EEOC or SCHAC before you quit. (eeoc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: File a charge quickly to keep the 180/300-day window open. Ask for interim fixes: schedule swaps, no-overtime orders, or temporary reassignment. If your health is at risk, ask your provider for an FMLA medical certification and call WHD for leave enforcement steps. (dol.gov)

Maternity leave options in South Carolina

There’s no general paid family leave law for private employers in South Carolina. You can stack protections and benefits to build time off.

Use FMLA if eligible: You may take unpaid, job-protected leave for prenatal care, pregnancy-related incapacity, birth, and bonding. Your employer must give notices and designate your leave properly; keep copies. See DOL Fact Sheet #28D (2025) and #28G. (dol.gov)
State employees and school staff: South Carolina provides paid parental leave to eligible state employees and school district staff (policy launched 2022). Confirm the weeks you get with your HR using the Department of Administration Paid Parental Leave page, and check current bills aiming to expand weeks. Recent guidance discusses coverage issues after stillbirth. (admin.sc.gov)
Short-term disability: Many private employers offer short‑term disability that pays part of your wage during pregnancy recovery; this is a company benefit, not a state program. Ask HR for the waiting period and claim forms.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you don’t meet FMLA thresholds, ask for PWFA/Pregnancy Accommodations Act time off as a reasonable accommodation (for appointments or recovery). For pay, ask HR if you can use PTO or sick time concurrently. If denied, call EEOC or A Better Balance. (abetterbalance.org)

Protecting your paycheck and job status

Minimum wage and overtime: South Carolina follows federal $7.25/hour; get help from [*WHD*](https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd) if you’re shorted, and file unpaid wage complaints with [*SCLLR Wages & Child Labor*](https://llr.sc.gov/wage/paymentofwages.aspx) for state wage issues like last check. The federal table confirms SC matches$ 7.25 in 2025. (dol.gov)
Unemployment if you lose work: You must be “able and available” for work to receive UI. If a provider limits your hours temporarily, ask if part-time work and job search fit DEW rules, then apply at DEW. Read the Claimant Handbook, and see DEW’s definition of “able and available.” (dew.sc.gov)
Unsafe work: Report hazards or lack of PPE to SC OSHA, and note strict 30‑day retaliation deadlines under the state plan. Ask for large-print or translated materials if needed. (osha.llr.sc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re fired after asking for an accommodation, that’s likely retaliation. Call EEOC and SCHAC to protect deadlines; if wages are withheld, call WHD and SCLLR. (dol.gov)

Health care, food, and cash stabilizers while you work

Medicaid while pregnant and after birth: Healthy Connections Medicaid covers pregnant moms with higher income limits, and postpartum coverage now lasts 12 months. Apply at SCDHHS 1-888-549-0820 (TTY 888-842-3620); see income tables (effective 03/01/2025) at Program Eligibility & Income Limits. Call to confirm current limits before you rely on them. (scdhhs.gov)
WIC for food + breastfeeding support: Call 1-855-472-3432 or start online with SC WIC. WIC offers eWIC food benefits, pumps, and counseling. Ask for language assistance or disability accommodations at your clinic. (dph.sc.gov)
SNAP food benefits: SNAP maximums for Oct 2024–Sep 2025 increased slightly; a family of four in the 48 states can qualify up to a max allotment of $975. Check current income limits and amounts on USDA SNAP FY2025 COLA and apply with SC DSS SNAP or call 1-800-616-1309; allow up to 30 days for processing (7 days if expedited). (fns.usda.gov)
TANF cash (Family Independence Program): South Carolina’s maximum TANF grant currently shows $229 (o n ec hi l d),$ 308 (two), $388 (three) on DSS TANF. These amounts can change and depend on your situation; call 1-800-616-1309 for current figures and to apply online. (dss.sc.gov)
Child care so you can work: The SC Working Families Child Care Scholarship helps families up to 85% State Median Income (e.g., $83,446 for a family of four). Apply in the DSS benefits portal, read details at SC Child Care Scholarships, and call the Client line 1-800-476-0199. Providers must be in ABC Quality. (dss.sc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask SC Thrive at 1-800-726-8774 to screen you for multiple programs at once; they can also help with healthcare costs and prescriptions. For food emergencies, contact Harvest Hope or Lowcountry Food Bank. (scthrive.org)

How to stop a utility shutoff in South Carolina today

Call your utility first: Ask for a payment extension or long-term plan. For example, Dominion Energy SC offers short-term extensions and multi-month plans (call 1-800-251-7234); ask for large-print billing if you need it. If they refuse, call ORS Consumer Services at 1-800-922-1531 for mediation, and use the PSC complaint process if needed. (dominionenergy.com)
Apply for LIHEAP right away: Use the SC Office of Economic Opportunity LIHEAP page to find your local agency and request crisis help. Bring your ID, SSN, recent bill, and proof of income. If denied, follow the fair hearing directions on the OEO site or email oeo@admin.sc.gov. (oeo.sc.gov)
Back-up contacts: For scams or billing abuses that aren’t regulated by ORS/PSC, call the SC Department of Consumer Affairs at 1-800-922-1594. For gas leaks or downed lines, use your utility’s emergency line and 911. (consumer.sc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a community partner for one-time help while your LIHEAP is pending—call SC 2‑1‑1, Trident United Way Resource Connection Centers, or your regional food bank like Lowcountry Food Bank. (uwasc.org)

Common mistakes to avoid

Waiting too long to file: The EEOC deadline can be as short as 180 days; in South Carolina, you generally have 300 days for federal claims but 180 days for state claims. Call to confirm the correct deadline before it runs. See EEOC FEPA info for SC and guidance on timeliness. (eeoc.gov)
Not documenting: Save emails/texts, take photos of posted notices, and keep a log of who said what and when. Use WHD complaint guidance for what info helps an investigation. (dol.gov)
Quitting before you get advice: Walking out can hurt benefits and claims. Speak with EEOC, SCHAC, or A Better Balance first. (eeoc.gov)
Missing FMLA notices: Employers must provide several notices and designate your leave; if they don’t, it can violate FMLA. Read DOL Fact Sheet #28D (Mar 2025). (dol.gov)
Under-using child care help: Scholarships can reach up to 85% SMI. Apply early in the DSS portal and ask SC Child Care for status updates. (dss.sc.gov)

Reality check: delays, denials, and what to expect

Agency response times: WHD often calls back within two business days after you submit a complaint request. SNAP can take up to 30 days (7 days if expedited). LIHEAP crisis aid depends on funding and county capacity; call your local agency to confirm current wait times. Use WHD filing page, DSS SNAP FAQ, and OEO LIHEAP to double‑check. (dol.gov)
Funding shortages: When LIHEAP or child care funds run low, you may go on a waitlist. Ask about crisis slots, documentation you can preload, and other local funds through SC 2‑1‑1. For workplace cases, mediation can be faster than litigation—ask EEOC or SCHAC. (uwasc.org)
Legal uncertainty: Parts of the PWFA abortion accommodation rule were vacated by a federal court in 2025; most of the law still stands. Ask EEOC or A Better Balance what applies to your situation. (reuters.com)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Need	Who to Call	Where to Click
Ask for pregnancy accommodation	EEOC 1-800-669-4000; SCHAC 803-737-7800	EEOC PWFA
Pumping time/space rights	WHD 1-866-4US‑WAGE	File with WHD
Unpaid wages	SCLLR Wage Line 803-896-7756	LLR Wage Complaint
Health coverage + postpartum	SCDHHS 1-888-549-0820	Eligibility & income
WIC & nutrition	WIC 1-855-472-3432	Apply
SNAP & TANF	DSS 1-800-616-1309	SNAP info
Child care costs	SC Child Care Scholarships 1-800-476-0199	Apply portal
Utility shutoff	ORS Consumer Services 1-800-922-1531	PSC complaint

Sources are linked in each cell; confirm details by phone before you rely on them. (dol.gov)

Application checklist — screenshot or print this

Photo ID: Driver’s license or other ID for you (and child, if required) for WIC, DSS, and LIHEAP. (dph.sc.gov)
Proof of pregnancy or medical note: For PWFA/SC accommodations and FMLA. (law.justia.com)
Recent pay stubs or income proof: Needed for SNAP, Medicaid, Child Care Scholarships. (fns.usda.gov)
Utility bill: For LIHEAP and any payment plan requests with your energy company (ask for large-print bills if needed via Dominion Energy SC). (oeo.sc.gov)
Child care provider info: So SC DSS can pay your provider directly (must be ABC Quality). (dss.sc.gov)

Troubleshooting: if your application gets denied

Ask for the reason in writing: For SNAP/TANF, call 1-800-616-1309 or visit the DSS portal to see what’s missing; for Medicaid, call SCDHHS at 1-888-549-0820; for LIHEAP, follow your agency’s appeal steps on OEO’s page. (dss.sc.gov)
File an appeal on time: Agencies have strict appeal windows. Ask for an interpreter, large-print mailings, or other accommodations as needed.
Get legal help: Try South Carolina Legal Services at 1-888-346-5592, SC Appleseed Legal Justice Center, or the SC Bar Ask‑A‑Lawyer program for guidance. (scaccesstojustice.org)

Local organizations, charities, churches, and support groups

Legal & rights support: South Carolina Legal Services 1-888-346-5592; A Better Balance Helpline 1-833-633-3222; ACLU of South Carolina resource list. These can help with discrimination, leave, or retaliation. (scaccesstojustice.org)
Food & basic needs: Harvest Hope Food Bank (Midlands, Upstate, Pee Dee), Lowcountry Food Bank, and SC 2‑1‑1 for local pantries and churches. Ask for diaper banks and formula programs as well. (harvesthope.org)
Domestic violence/sexual assault: Start with SCCADVASA for a county provider and the National DV Hotline 1-800-799-7233. DSS also lists programs at Help for Victims. (sccadvasa.org)
Immigration legal: Catholic Charities of South Carolina Immigration Legal Services have statewide offices; ask about low‑cost appointments. SC Appleseed offers policy info and referrals. (charitiessc.org)
Lactation & peer support: SC Breastfeeding Coalition, Community Lactation Groups, and your county WIC clinic. (scbreastfeeds.org)

Diverse communities: tailored guidance and contacts

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for respectful, inclusive care and workplace accommodations under PWFA; if you face harassment or retaliation, contact EEOC and consider community support through SC Equality resources. For lactation help and chestfeeding support, use the SC Breastfeeding Coalition. (eeoc.gov)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Request reasonable accommodations at work and during agency appointments. For advocacy or legal help, call Disability Rights South Carolina 1-866-275-7273 (TTY 1-866-232-4525), and use Family Connection of SC 1-800-578-8750 for school and medical navigation. The SC Vocational Rehabilitation Department can help with job training and accommodations. (disabilityrightssc.org)
Veteran single mothers: Tap benefits navigation at the SC Department of Veterans’ Affairs 1-803-734-0200, and ask a County Veterans’ Service Officer for claims help. For federal questions, use the VA benefits line or VA Columbia Regional Office contacts via SCDVA. Watch out for fee‑based “filers”—the FTC warns about scams; get only accredited help. (scdva.sc.gov)
Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can file with EEOC and WHD regardless of immigration status; help is free and confidential. For legal status questions, call Catholic Charities or SC Appleseed. Ask agencies for interpreters and translated forms. (dol.gov)
Tribal community members: The Catawba Indian Nation has local health services at the Catawba Service Unit (IHS) 803-366-9090 and community offices via the Catawba Nation. Ask employers for culturally appropriate accommodations if you must travel for care. (ihs.gov)
Rural single moms with limited internet: Use library computers, ask SC Thrive to submit applications by phone, and request mailed forms from SCDHHS. For safety issues, report to SC OSHA by phone and ask for TTY or language services. (scthrive.org)
Single fathers: These protections apply to you too. For bonding leave, FMLA covers fathers; SC state employees in eligible roles can access paid parental leave—confirm with Admin: Paid Parental Leave and your HR. For child care costs, see SC Child Care Scholarships. (admin.sc.gov)
Language access and accessibility: Ask every office for interpreters, TTY, and large-print documents. Key lines: EEOC ASL VP 1-844-234-5122, WHD 1-866-4US‑WAGE (Telecommunications Relay 7‑1‑1), SCDHHS member line 1-888-549-0820 (TTY 888-842-3620). (eeoc.gov)

Resources by region (examples you can call today)

Region	Key Help	Contacts
Upstate (Greenville/Spartanburg)	Food, legal, and UI	Harvest Hope Upstate 864-281-3995; SC Legal Services 1-888-346-5592; WHD Columbia District 803-765-5981
Midlands (Columbia)	Statewide agencies	SCDHHS 1-888-549-0820; SCHAC 803-737-7800; EEOC (Charlotte/Greenville) 1-800-669-4000
Lowcountry (Charleston/Tri-County)	Utilities, food, WHD	Trident United Way RCC 843-740-9000; Lowcountry Food Bank 843-747-8146; WHD N. Charleston 1-866-487-9243
Pee Dee/Grand Strand (Florence/Myrtle Beach)	Food and 2‑1‑1	Lowcountry Food Bank Northern Center 843-448-0341; SC 2‑1‑1 dial 2‑1‑1; DSS SNAP/TANF 1-800-616-1309

Sources linked within each cell—use phone first during peak demand. (harvesthope.org)

County-level variations to know

Child care scholarship processing: Some counties process faster; always apply online at the DSS portal, then call the Child Care Operations Center at 1-800-476-0199 to confirm receipt. Funding and waitlists change month to month. (dss.sc.gov)
LIHEAP crises: Different community action agencies run the program by county—use the OEO page to find yours and ask about “crisis” appointments. (oeo.sc.gov)
EEOC office routing: Most South Carolina counties route through the EEOC Charlotte or Atlanta networks; check the EEOC FEPA page or call 1-800-669-4000 to confirm where to file. (eeoc.gov)

Tables you can use quickly

A. Accommodation request — examples that often get approved

Need	Simple Request	Why it’s Reasonable
Nausea/fatigue	Extra 10‑minute break every 2–3 hours; stool to sit	Low cost, fits PWFA examples
Lifting limits	No lifting over X lbs; use cart or team lift	Safety, minimal disruption
Prenatal care	Schedule change or intermittent time off for visits	Time‑limited and predictable
Pumping	Private room (not bathroom), outlet, chair, lock	Required under PUMP and SC law

Use EEOC PWFA highlights and DOL PUMP for backup. (eeoc.gov)

B. Leave building blocks (mix and match)

Option	Paid?	Who to Ask	Notes
FMLA (up to 12 weeks)	Unpaid	HR, then WHD	Job-protected if eligible
PTO/sick time	Paid (yours)	HR	Can run with FMLA
PWFA time off	Unpaid or paid	HR, EEOC	As a reasonable accommodation
State employee PPL	Paid	HR, Admin PPL	Only for eligible public workers

(dol.gov)

C. Program timelines (typical, confirm locally)

Program	Usual Timeline	Who to Call
WHD complaint intake	Contact within ~2 business days	WHD
SNAP	Up to 30 days; 7 days expedited	DSS Connect
Medicaid (pregnancy)	Often 10–20 days if docs ready	SCDHHS
LIHEAP crisis	Varies by county; call first	OEO LIHEAP

(dol.gov)

D. Money & food benefits snapshot (FY 2025)

Benefit	Example Maximums	Where to Check
SNAP max (HH of 4)	$975/month (48 states)	USDA FY2025 COLA
TANF cash (FI)	$229 (1 c hi l d),$ 308 (2), $388 (3)	DSS TANF
WIC	Varies by participant	SC WIC

Amounts vary by household and may change—call to confirm. (fns.usda.gov)

E. Utility shutoff fast-path

Step	Action	Contact
1	Request a payment plan	Dominion Energy SC 1-800-251-7234
2	Apply for LIHEAP	OEO LIHEAP
3	Mediate if refused	ORS Consumer Services 1-800-922-1531
4	File formal complaint	PSC File a Complaint

(dominionenergy.com)

FAQs — South Carolina, pregnancy, and work

Do I have to tell my boss I’m pregnant?
No law forces you to disclose unless you need an accommodation or leave. If you do disclose, ask in writing for specific changes under PWFA and SC’s law. Keep records. (eeoc.gov)
My job says there’s no sitting allowed—can I get a stool?
Yes, a stool is a common reasonable accommodation under PWFA and SC’s Act. Use EEOC examples and SCHAC’s regulation language to support your request. See EEOC highlights and Reg. 65‑30. (eeoc.gov)
Can my employer force me to take unpaid leave if I ask for lighter duty?
No—state law says they can’t require leave if another reasonable accommodation works. See SC Code §1‑13‑80(A)(4)(d). (law.justia.com)
How much time can I take to pump?
“Reasonable” time as needed for up to one year after birth, and a private non‑bathroom space is required. See DOL PUMP and EEOC’s pumping chart. (dol.gov)
Is there paid family leave statewide?
No. Private-sector paid leave isn’t required. State employees and many school staff have paid parental leave per Admin PPL. Ask HR for your policy. (admin.sc.gov)
What if I’m fired after asking for an accommodation?
That can be illegal retaliation. File with EEOC or SCHAC immediately to protect the deadline. Keep evidence of your request and any write‑ups. (eeoc.gov)
Can I get unemployment while I’m pregnant?
You must be “able and available” to work per DEW. If your provider limits you to part‑time or seated work, note that in your job search. Check the Claimant Handbook. (dew.sc.gov)
Where can I get help writing my request or complaint?
Call A Better Balance (1‑833‑633‑3222), South Carolina Legal Services (1‑888‑346‑5592), or ask EEOC for mediation. (abetterbalance.org)
Are pump breaks paid?
If you’re not completely relieved of duty, time counts as hours worked; otherwise it can be unpaid for hourly workers. Salaried/exempt workers’ salaries can’t be docked for pump breaks. Confirm with WHD. (dol.gov)
How do I find child care that takes vouchers?
Your provider must be in ABC Quality; apply for scholarships in the DSS portal and call 1-800-476-0199 with questions. (scchildcare.org)

Spanish summary (resumen en español)

Esta sección fue traducida con herramientas de IA. Verifique los detalles con los enlaces oficiales.

Embarazo y trabajo: La PWFA federal (EEOC) y la Ley de Acomodaciones por Embarazo de Carolina del Sur exigen “acomodaciones razonables” (descansos, límites de carga, horarios, tiempo para citas/pruebas y recuperación). Si su empleador dice “no”, llame a 1‑800‑669‑4000 (EEOC) o 803‑737‑7800 (SCHAC). (eeoc.gov)
Lactancia: La Ley PUMP del DOL garantiza pausas razonables y un lugar privado (no baño) hasta un año. Si hay problemas, llame al DOL WHD 1‑866‑487‑9243. (dol.gov)
Beneficios de salud y comida: Solicite Medicaid (Healthy Connections) mediante SCDHHS 1‑888‑549‑0820; WIC al 1‑855‑472‑3432 (WIC SC); y SNAP/TANF en DSS 1‑800‑616‑1309. Para ayuda con formularios, llame a SC Thrive 1‑800‑726‑8774. (scdhhs.gov)
Cuidado infantil: Becas para familias trabajadoras hasta 85% de la Mediana Estatal. Vea Becas de Cuidado Infantil y solicite en el portal de DSS. (scchildcare.org)
Cortes de servicios: Llame a su empresa para planes de pago, aplique a LIHEAP, y pida mediación a ORS 1‑800‑922‑1531; si no funciona, presente queja en la PSC. (oeo.sc.gov)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

This guide is for general education only and isn’t legal advice. Laws and amounts change. Always confirm the latest details with the linked agencies or a licensed attorney. If you have a deadline, file promptly to preserve your rights.

What to do if you still feel stuck

Document and call: Save proof and call EEOC, WHD, or SCHAC for enforcement help. (dol.gov)
Ask a navigator to apply with you: Use SC Thrive for benefits, SCDHHS for Medicaid, and DSS for SNAP/TANF. (scthrive.org)
Check community allies: Contact Harvest Hope, Lowcountry Food Bank, and SC 2‑1‑1 for stopgap help while your claims process. (harvesthope.org)

Stay steady, write things down, and use the agency contacts in this guide. You don’t have to figure every program out alone.

🏛️More South Carolina Resources for Single Mothers

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