HomeChild CareSouth CarolinaSouth Carolina Child Care Scholarship
How to Apply: South Carolina Child Care Scholarship
South Carolina · 5 StepsSC parents who work 15+ hours a week or are in school or training, with kids under 13 (up to 19 with special needs)
Take it one step at a time. We're here to help.
Quick facts
Step 1 of 5: See if this is for you
- Work 15 hours a week
- Or in school or training
- Kids under 13
- Income under the limit
Good to know: Income limit is 85% of the State Median Income. Kids up to 19 with special needs can qualify.Step 2 of 5: Get your papers ready
- Birth certificate
- Pay stubs or work schedule
- Income proof or benefit letters
- Citizenship or legal status papers
Step 3 of 5: Apply online
- Learn more about scholarships (opens in a new tab)Tap to open
- Use the DSS Benefits Portal
Important: Online applications only - no paper, fax, or in-person options.Step 4 of 5: Pick a provider
- Choose an ABC Quality provider
- Provider sends the Connection Form
Step 5 of 5: Enjoy your care
- State pays provider monthly
- You may pay $6-$20 a week
- Lasts 52 weeks, renewable
Good to know: Extra scholarships exist for families without stable housing or getting TANF or SNAP. You've got this!
A "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for the South Carolina Child Care Scholarship.
What is the SC Child Care Scholarship?
The South Carolina Child Care Scholarship (also called the Working Families Child Care Scholarship) helps families pay for child care while parents work, attend school, or take part in job training. Payments go directly to approved child care providers through the state’s ABC Quality program.
How do I apply for the Scholarship?
You must apply online using the South Carolina DSS Benefits Portal.
There are no paper, fax, or in-person applications available.
For help:
Call 1‑800‑476‑0199 (families)
Email scchildcare@dss.sc.gov
How long before I get help?
Once your application is approved and your provider submits a connection form, payments to providers typically start within 3–4 days after reporting attendance. Scholarships last for 52 weeks and can be renewed if you still qualify.
What do the application steps look like?
Check eligibility:
Work at least 15 hours per week or attend school/training
Meet income guidelines (85% of the State Median Income)
Apply online:
Use the DSS Benefits Portal to fill out the application and upload your documents
Choose a provider:
Select an approved ABC Quality providerFind a provider here.
Provider submits a Connection Form:
This connects your child to the scholarship program in the system
Provider invoices DSS:
The state pays the provider directly each month
What documentation is required?
Child’s Information:
Birth Certificate
Proof of Work/School/Training:
Recent pay stubs
Work schedule
School or training enrollment letter
Proof of Income:
Pay stubs
Tax return
Benefit award letter (TANF, SNAP, SSI)
Residency & Citizenship:
Proof of SC address (like a lease, utility bill, or government mail)
U.S. citizenship declaration or legal status documentation
Common FAQs
1. Who qualifies?Parents working 15+ hours/week, attending school, or in job training, with income at or below the state’s income guidelines, and children under 13 (or up to 19 with special needs).
2. Are other scholarships available?Yes — additional programs support families who are experiencing homelessness, receiving TANF/SNAP, or dual-language learners.See available options.
3. How much will families pay?You may pay a small family fee based on income, typically around $6–$20 per child per week.
4. Can I pick my child care provider?Yes — but they must be an ABC Quality-approved provider.
5. Is this a non-discrimination program?Yes — no one is denied based on race, color, sex, age, disability, religion, or national origin.
Who do I contact about my application?
Family Support Line:1‑800‑476‑0199
Provider Support Line:1‑800‑262‑4416
Email:scchildcare@dss.sc.gov
Apply or manage your benefits:DSS Benefits Portal
Last updated July 1, 2025