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 $83,466 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.

To qualify, parent(s) or guardian(s) must:

• have a child or children between birth and 12 years of age
• work at least 15 hours per week or attend school or a training program
• have a gross income at or below 85% of the state median income level; for a family of four this would be up to $83,466 annually

Child care scholarships are also available to support children ages 13 to 18 in certain circumstances: those who have disabilities, developmental delays or who are in foster care.

If you qualify and are approved, tuition will be provided in direct payments to your child care provider for 12 months. A scholarship may cover all or a portion of child care costs. The child care scholarship amount you are eligible for will be determined by factors including your provider’s tuition rate, their ABC Quality level and your child’s age.

Full Details & How to Apply

Funding to offset the cost of child care is also available through other programs such as TANF, homeless, dual language learners, and others. Assistance for full or part-time child care will be determined by the number of hours you are participating in work, school or training.

To qualify, parent(s) or guardian(s) must:

• have a child or children between birth and 12 years of age 
• work at least 15 hours per week or attend school or a training program (15-29 hours considered part-time; 30 or more hours considered full-time)
• have a state median income of 85%; for a family of four this would be up to $83,446 annually

Full Details & How to Apply

Hours of Operation

Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Closed on state holidays

Client Number: (800) 476-0199

Mailing Address:

Child Care Scholarship Program

P.O. Box 100160

Columbia, SC 29202-3160