TANF
TANF Program

How to Apply for TANF in South Carolina

South Carolina's TANF program includes a notable option for relative caregivers: if you're caring for a child under 18 who isn't your own (a grandchild, niece, nephew, or other qualifying relative), you can choose a TANF Child-Only grant where your own income and resources don't count against the child's benefit, or you can opt to be included in the benefit group yourself. Applications go through the DSS Benefits Portal, the same online system used for SNAP, and the maximum monthly grant is modest — $229 for one child, $308 for two, and $388 for three. Caseworkers aim to help families reach stability within 24 months through employment training, child care, and transportation support.

Updated August 2026

What You'll Need

✓ Proof of the child in your care being under 18 ✓ Household income and resource information (if applying as part of the benefit group) ✓ Proof of relationship to the child, for caretaker relatives ✓ Cooperation with child support enforcement procedures ✓ A completed application submitted online, in person, by mail, or by fax
  1. 1

    Apply online, in person, by mail, or by fax

    Apply through the DSS Benefits Portal at benefitsportal.dss.sc.gov, visit your local county DSS office in person, or submit a completed paper application by mail or fax to your county office.

  2. 2

    Decide on a Child-Only grant if you are a relative caregiver

    If you're caring for a relative's child under 18, choose whether to apply for a TANF Child-Only grant (your income isn't counted) or to include yourself in the benefit group (your income and resources are counted).

  3. 3

    Cooperate with child support requirements

    TANF applicants and recipients must cooperate with the Department on child support procedures as a condition of eligibility.

  4. 4

    Meet with your assigned caseworker

    A caseworker is assigned to each family to assess needs, screen for additional services, and build a plan toward family stability, generally within 24 months.

  5. 5

    Participate in employment and training activities

    Adults receiving TANF cash assistance for themselves are offered employment training, placement, child care, and transportation while in training, and are subject to TANF participation requirements and time limits unless exempt.

Submit Your Application

Apply Online ☎ 1-800-616-1309

Verified against the official South Carolina TANF agency site. View source

Find a TANF office in South Carolina →