Assistance programs in South Carolina
Explore public benefits and assistance resources by the kind of help you need. Agencies decide eligibility and availability.
Find programs for your situationFood assistance
South Carolina SNAP (Food Assistance)
South Carolina SNAP applications use the DSS Benefits Portal or a county office’s paper, mail or fax route. A caseworker reviews eligibility and interviews applicants.
South Carolina WIC
South Carolina WIC starts with a clinic appointment or the online pre-application. Call 855-472-3432 to arrange an appointment.
Utility assistance
LIHEAP Energy Assistance (South Carolina)
South Carolina LIHEAP applications go to the local Community Action agency. The Office of Economic Opportunity does not accept household applications.
Weatherization Assistance Program (South Carolina)
South Carolina weatherization applications go to the Community Action provider serving your county. Ask for its current home-assessment and income checklist.
Health coverage
Healthy Connections Medicaid (South Carolina)
Healthy Connections is South Carolina Medicaid. Apply online, request a paper form or contact a county eligibility office.
Cash and income support
South Carolina Earned Income Tax Credit
South Carolina’s earned income credit is claimed with the state tax return using TC-60 for the correct tax year. It is a nonrefundable state credit.
South Carolina Family Independence (TANF Cash Assistance)
South Carolina TANF helps qualifying families with children. Caretaker relatives should ask whether a child-only grant or a grant including the adult fits their situation.
Unemployment Insurance (South Carolina DEW)
South Carolina unemployment claims use DEW’s MyBenefits portal. Weekly certifications and SCWOS job searches are separate ongoing tasks.
Additional support
SC 211
South Carolina 211 provides free, confidential resource referrals around the clock. Call, text or search the statewide directory.
South Carolina Legal Services
South Carolina Legal Services screens requests for free civil legal help. Apply online or use its statewide telephone intake line.
SC Thrive (Free Help Applying for Benefits)
SC Thrive helps people screen for benefits and complete applications through its support service and Thrive Hub. Agencies still decide program eligibility.
Program names come from our existing directory. Funding and rules can change; confirm details with the administering agency before applying.