DSS will continue to offer child care scholarships for working parents. Beginning October 1st, in order to qualify for a SC Working Families Child Care Scholarship your family must have a gross income at or below 85% of the state median income level; for a family of four this would be up to $76,272 annually. Families whose income falls above the new threshold and already have child care scholarships will remain enrolled until their 52-week eligibility period expires.
The Child Care Scholarship Program makes child care more affordable for families by making all or a portion of provider payments directly to child care providers so parents can work or attend school or training. Provider payments are received promptly, often 3–4 days after online submission, and participation unlocks access to grants and other support through ABC Quality.
The Child Care Scholarship Program helps families afford child care so parents can work, go to school, or get job training. More than 1,900 child care providers across the state are enrolled to accept scholarships.
How to Qualify
Qualifying South Carolina families may have access to child care scholarships from the South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS). The primary SC Working Families child care scholarship offering is known as the SC Working Families Child Care Scholarship.
What Families Need to Know
To qualify for a SC Working Families Child Care Scholarship, parent(s) or guardian(s) must:Ready to Apply?
Child care scholarship eligibility requirements and online applications are available in the DSS Benefits Portal.
Have questions?
If you have child care scholarship or eligibility questions, please email scchildcare@dss.sc.gov for assistance.
Child Care Operations Center
Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Closed on State Holidays
Client Number: (800) 476-0199
Provider Number: (800) 262-4416
Complaint Line: (800) 763-2223
Mailing Address:
Child Care Scholarship Program
P.O. Box 100160
Columbia, SC 29202-3160
You can apply for child care scholarships via the DSS Benefits Portal
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SC Child Care
1535 Confederate Ave.
Columbia, SC 29201
803-898-2570
The Division of Early Care and Education is a division of the South Carolina Department of Social Services.
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