South Carolina SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) provides monthly food assistance to low-income households through an EBT card accepted at grocery stores statewide. In 2026, the income limits are set at 130% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) for gross monthly income and 100% FPL for net monthly income. A family of four can earn up to $3,250 per month gross and still qualify. There is no asset test in South Carolina, so savings and vehicle values are not counted.
If you want to check your eligibility across multiple programs at once, use the free Benefits Navigator screener to get personalized results in minutes.
South Carolina SNAP Income Limits 2026
The limits below apply from October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. Most households must meet both the gross income test (130% FPL) and the net income test (100% FPL). Households with a member who is age 60 or older, or who has a disability, only need to meet the net income test.
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Limit (130% FPL) | Net Monthly Limit (100% FPL) |
|---|
| 1 person | $1,580 | $1,215 |
| 2 people | $2,137 | $1,644 |
| 3 people | $2,694 | $2,072 |
| 4 people | $3,250 | $2,500 |
| 5 people | $3,807 | $2,929 |
| 6 people | $4,364 | $3,357 |
| 7 people | $4,921 | $3,785 |
| 8 people | $5,478 | $4,214 |
| Each additional person | +$557 | +$429 |
Gross income is your total household income before any deductions. Net income is what remains after allowable deductions are subtracted. Both tests must be passed for most households.
Maximum SNAP Benefit Amounts in South Carolina 2026
If your household is approved, the maximum monthly benefit depends on household size. Most families receive less than the maximum because benefits are calculated based on net income, not just size.
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly SNAP Benefit |
|---|
| 1 person | $298 |
| 2 people | $546 |
| 3 people | $785 |
| 4 people | $994 |
| 5 people | $1,183 |
| 6 people | $1,421 |
| 7 people | $1,571 |
| 8 people | $1,789 |
| Each additional person | +$218 |
Benefits are loaded monthly onto your South Carolina EBT card and can be used at most grocery stores, supermarkets, farmers markets, and some online retailers.
Deductions That Lower Your Counted Income
Because SNAP uses net income to calculate your actual benefit amount, deductions matter. South Carolina allows the following deductions:
- Standard deduction: Applied to all households automatically, varies by household size
- Earned income deduction: 20% of gross earned income is excluded
- Dependent care deduction: Costs for childcare needed to work, look for work, or attend school
- Medical expense deduction: Out-of-pocket medical costs above $35/month for elderly or disabled household members
- Excess shelter deduction: Rent, mortgage, utilities, and other housing costs that exceed half your net income after other deductions
The shelter deduction is capped for most households. However, if your household includes an elderly or disabled member, there is no cap on the shelter deduction, which can significantly increase your benefit.
Who Qualifies for South Carolina SNAP
To be eligible for SNAP in South Carolina, your household must meet these requirements:
Income: Gross income at or below 130% FPL and net income at or below 100% FPL (elderly/disabled households: net income only).
Residency: You must live in South Carolina.
Citizenship: U.S. citizens and certain qualified non-citizens are eligible. Qualified non-citizens include lawful permanent residents with 5 or more years of U.S. residence, refugees, asylees, and children under 18 regardless of entry date.
Work requirements: Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) between ages 18 and 64 must work or participate in a qualifying work program at least 80 hours per month to receive SNAP beyond three months in a 36-month period. Exemptions apply for those who are pregnant, have a disability, are caring for a child under 6, or meet other criteria.
Assets: South Carolina has no asset or resource test for SNAP. Your bank balance, vehicle, and other property are not counted.
Special SNAP Programs in South Carolina
South Carolina operates two simplified application programs:
SCCAP (South Carolina Combined Application Project): If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you may qualify for SNAP automatically without a separate DSS application. SSI recipients can apply directly through Social Security.
ESAP (Elderly Simplified Application Project): Households where all members are age 60 or older, or are disabled, can apply through a simplified process and typically receive longer certification periods, often up to 36 months.
How to Apply for SNAP in South Carolina
Applications are processed by the South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS). You have four options:
Step 1: Choose Your Application Method
Online: Visit the DSS Benefits Portal at benefitsportal.dss.sc.gov. You can create an account, fill out the application, upload documents, and check your case status online.
In person: Go to your local DSS county office. Find the nearest office using the DSS office locator at dss.sc.gov/contact-dss.
By mail or fax: Download the paper application from dss.sc.gov in English or Spanish, complete it, and mail or fax it to your county DSS office.
Phone: Call the DSS SNAP line at 1-800-616-1309 to request a paper application or get help.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
You will need to provide documentation for the following:
- Identity (driver's license, state ID, passport, or birth certificate)
- Social Security numbers for all household members applying
- Proof of residency (utility bill, lease agreement, or mail showing your SC address)
- Proof of income (pay stubs, employer letter, Social Security award letter, or unemployment notice)
- Rent or mortgage amount and utility costs for the shelter deduction
- Immigration documents for non-citizen household members
Step 3: Complete the Interview
Most SNAP applicants are required to complete an eligibility interview. The interview can usually be done by phone. DSS will contact you to schedule it after receiving your application.
Step 4: Wait for a Decision
DSS must make a determination within 30 calendar days of receiving your completed application. If you are approved, benefits are loaded onto your EBT card.
Expedited SNAP: If your household has very little income or resources, you may qualify for expedited service. Benefits can be issued within 7 days. You may qualify for expedited SNAP if your household's gross monthly income is less than $150 and you have less than $100 in resources, or if your combined monthly income and resources are less than your monthly rent and utilities.
Step 5: Recertify Before Your Benefits Expire
SNAP benefits are not permanent. Most households are certified for 6 to 12 months. You will receive a notice before your certification period ends. Recertify on time to avoid a gap in benefits.
What You Can Buy With SNAP
SNAP benefits can be used to purchase:
- Bread, cereals, and grains
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, fish, and poultry
- Dairy products
- Seeds and plants that grow food
SNAP cannot be used for alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, hot prepared meals, or non-food household items.
South Carolina SNAP and Other Benefits
SNAP households in South Carolina may also qualify for other programs. If you have children, you may be eligible for WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) nutrition assistance or free and reduced school meals. Low-income households may also qualify for LIHEAP energy assistance to help with heating and cooling costs.
For a full picture of what you may qualify for, run your information through the free Benefits Navigator screener. It checks SNAP, Medicaid, LIHEAP, WIC, and other programs based on your household's situation.
You can also explore all South Carolina assistance programs at benefitsusa.org/states/sc.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the income limit for SNAP in South Carolina for a family of 4 in 2026?
A household of four must have gross monthly income at or below $3,250 (130% FPL) and net monthly income at or below $2,500 (100% FPL) to qualify. Net income is calculated after deductions for earned income, shelter costs, childcare, and other allowable expenses.
Does South Carolina have an asset test for SNAP?
No. South Carolina has eliminated the asset test for most SNAP applicants. Your bank account balance, vehicles, and property are not counted when determining eligibility.
How long does it take to get approved for SNAP in South Carolina?
DSS must process your application within 30 calendar days. If you qualify for expedited service due to very low income or resources, you can receive benefits within 7 days.
Can I apply for SNAP online in South Carolina?
Yes. You can apply through the DSS Benefits Portal at benefitsportal.dss.sc.gov. The portal allows you to submit your application, upload documents, complete the interview scheduling process, and check your case status.
What is the maximum SNAP benefit for one person in South Carolina?
The maximum monthly SNAP benefit for a one-person household in South Carolina is $298 in 2026. The actual amount you receive depends on your net income after deductions.
Do work requirements apply to SNAP in South Carolina?
Yes, for able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) between ages 18 and 64. These individuals must work or participate in a qualifying work or training program at least 80 hours per month. Exemptions apply for those who are pregnant, caring for a child under age 6, have a disability, or meet other qualifying conditions.
If I receive SSI, do I automatically get SNAP in South Carolina?
Not automatically, but South Carolina's SCCAP program makes the process easier. SSI recipients in South Carolina may apply for SNAP directly through Social Security without visiting a DSS office, and approval is typically streamlined.
Can non-citizens get SNAP in South Carolina?
Certain qualified non-citizens can receive SNAP. Eligible groups include lawful permanent residents who have lived in the U.S. for at least 5 years, refugees, asylees, and children under 18 regardless of when they entered. Undocumented immigrants are not eligible for SNAP.
How do I check my SNAP balance in South Carolina?
You can check your EBT card balance by calling the number on the back of your card, logging into ebtedge.com, or using the Propel (Fresh EBT) app. Your balance is also shown on receipts after purchases.
What is the phone number for South Carolina SNAP?
The South Carolina DSS SNAP line is 1-800-616-1309. You can also visit your local county DSS office for in-person help.
