SC 211, United Way Association of South Carolina
Free help finding health and social services. Call, or text your zip code to 211211. Available 24 hours a day.
Official page: sc211.org
Find Help in South Carolina: Where to Start with 211, SNAP, Medicaid and ID
A simple first step guide for South Carolina: call SC 211, apply for SNAP and Medicaid, get a state ID card, reach 988, and find free legal help.
Need help tonight?
Start here
Hi friend. If things feel like too much right now, you don't have to figure it all out at once. Start with one call to 211, then take the next small step from this page.
Quick answers
What is SC 211 and how do I reach it?
SC 211 connects you with health and social services near you. Dial 211 or call 866 892 9211. You can also text your zip code to 211211. The service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year.
Official page: sc211.org
How do I apply for SNAP?
You can apply online through the DSS benefits portal, or through a county DSS office where a caseworker will interview you. Most households get a first payment within 30 days, and households that qualify for expedited help get benefits within 7 days. For questions, call DSS at 800 616 1309.
Official page: dss.sc.gov/assistance-programs/snap
How do I apply for Medicaid?
In South Carolina, Medicaid is called Healthy Connections. Apply online, in person at your county office, or call 888 549 0820. SC Thrive can help you fill out the application. Medicaid is usually for children, parents and caretakers, pregnant women, people 65 and older, and people with disabilities.
Official page: scdhhs.gov/members/getting-started
Is a state ID card free in South Carolina?
An original ID card or a renewal is free for people 17 and older. A replacement costs $10. You will need the DMV application, your Social Security number, your birth certificate and other identity papers, and proof of a South Carolina address. If you are not sure how to get these papers, see our page on getting ID and documents back.
Official page: dmv.sc.gov/driver-services/identification-cards
What if I'm in crisis or thinking about suicide?
Call or text 988, or chat at chat.988lifeline.org. It is free and available any time. For Spanish, call 988 and press 2, or text AYUDA to 988.
Official page: 988lifeline.org/get-help
Your next steps
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Bunkly tip: write the 211 number and 866 892 9211 on a card and keep it in your wallet or shoe. If your phone dies, you can ask anyone to call for you.
Who to call in South Carolina
Here are official places to start. Other places may also help. Each place decides who it can serve, and hours change, so call ahead when you can.
South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS)
Apply for SNAP online or at your county DSS office. Phone help for SNAP and TANF customers.
Official page: dss.sc.gov/assistance-programs/snap
Healthy Connections Medicaid, SCDHHS
South Carolina's Medicaid program. Apply online, in person, or by phone. SC Thrive can help with the application.
Official page: scdhhs.gov/members/getting-started
South Carolina DMV
ID cards are free to get or renew at age 17 and older. Replacement cards cost $10.
Official page: dmv.sc.gov/driver-services/identification-cards
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Free support by call, text or chat, any time. Spanish is available.
Official page: 988lifeline.org/get-help
South Carolina Legal Services
Free civil legal help for eligible low income residents. Call the intake line and follow the prompts.
Official page: sclegal.org/contact-us
More help in South Carolina
Housing help in South Carolina (rent, eviction, utilities)Emergency Shelter Tonight in South Carolina: Columbia, Charleston, Greenville and How to Get HelpNo cost Food Help in South Carolina: SNAP, WIC and Food BanksNo cost Clothing, Showers and Hygiene Help in South CarolinaFree Job Help and Job Training in South Carolina: SC Works, Job Corps and MoreFree and Low Cost Health and Mental Health Care in South CarolinaDomestic Violence Help, Safety and Housing in South CarolinaHelp for Veterans in South Carolina: Housing, Crisis Support and BenefitsHelp for Youth and Young Adults in South Carolina: Safe Places, Support and TrainingGetting ID and Documents Back in South Carolina: State ID and Birth CertificateFree and Low Cost Phone and Internet Help in South CarolinaFree Legal and Tenant Help in South Carolina: Evictions, Benefits and CourtHow to Make Blessing Bags in South Carolina: Safe Food, Water and Heat Tips
Sources last checked Oct 28, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it.
Nothing here is a promise of a bed, money or housing. Each person chooses which options to use.