South Carolina Childcare Subsidies & Assistance Programs (2026)
South Carolina's ABC Voucher Program and SC First Steps Pre-K help working families access affordable childcare. Here's how to get every dollar you're entitled to.
Available Programs
| Program | Ages | Eligibility | Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABC Voucher Program (CCDF) | 0–12 | Working/in-school, below 85% SMI | Subsidized voucher for licensed providers |
| SC First Steps Pre-K | 3–4 | At-risk children (income & developmental criteria) | Free pre-K at school-based and community sites |
| Head Start / Early Head Start | 0–5 | Below 100% FPL | Free comprehensive early learning |
| TANF Childcare (Family Independence) | 0–12 | FI/TANF recipients | Childcare support while working/training |
| At-Risk Childcare | 0–12 | Former TANF recipients | Up to 12 months transitional assistance |
Income Eligibility Limits (2026)
| Family Size | 85% SMI (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 | ~$45,000 |
| 3 | ~$56,000 |
| 4 | ~$67,000 |
Copay amounts are based on a sliding scale. Lower-income families pay little or no copay. SC First Steps is based on at-risk status, not income alone.
How to Apply
- ABC Voucher: Apply online at dss.sc.gov or visit your local SC DSS county office. The online self-service portal is available 24/7.
- SC First Steps Pre-K: Contact your county's First Steps partnership office or your local school district for enrollment. Applications typically open in spring for fall enrollment.
- Head Start: Find your local program at eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/center-locator.
- Documents needed: proof of income, work/school schedule, child's birth certificate, and South Carolina residency.
Additional South Carolina Tax Benefits
- SC Child and Dependent Care Credit: South Carolina allows a nonrefundable credit equal to 7% of qualifying child care expenses paid during the year, up to $210 for one child.
- Federal Child and Dependent Care Credit: Up to $1,050 for one child ($2,100 for two or more) in federal tax credits annually.
- Dependent Care FSA: If your employer offers it, a DCFSA lets you pay up to $5,000/year in childcare costs with pre-tax dollars, reducing your federal taxable income.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the income limit for childcare assistance in South Carolina?
SC ABC Voucher Program eligibility is set at 85% SMI — approximately $56,000/year for a family of 3. At least one parent must be working, in school, or in job training to qualify.
What is SC First Steps Pre-K?
SC First Steps provides free pre-K for at-risk 3- and 4-year-olds through partnerships with schools and community centers in all 46 SC counties. Eligibility is based on risk factors including income, developmental needs, and family circumstances.
How do I apply for childcare assistance in South Carolina?
Apply through SC DSS at dss.sc.gov or at your local county DSS office. For SC First Steps, contact your county First Steps office in spring. Bring income documentation, work proof, child's birth certificate, and SC residency verification.
Calculate South Carolina Childcare Costs
See childcare cost estimates for your South Carolina zip code.
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