How to apply for Optional State Supplementation (OSS) for residential care facility residents in South Carolina

Who it's for

Optional State Supplementation (OSS) helps people who live in an approved, licensed Community Residential Care Facility (assisted living) pay for their care. It is for people who are at least 65, blind, or disabled and who meet SSI rules except for income. People who qualify get full Medicaid benefits, and the state pays a cash assistance payment to the facility. Monthly net income may not exceed $1,804, and resources must not exceed $2,000 (2026). The facility must be enrolled with SCDHHS in the OSS program. Apply online through Healthy Connections, by mail or fax, or at your local county office.

What you'll need

• Healthy Connections application
• Application for Nursing Home, Residential or In-Home Care
• Proof of income and resources

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Optional State Supplementation (OSS) for residential care facility residents. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need healthy Connections application, application for Nursing Home, Residential or In-Home Care, proof of income and resources — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Confirm that you live in, or are moving to, a licensed Community Residential Care Facility that is enrolled with SCDHHS in the OSS program.
2. Check that your monthly net income is no more than $1,804 per person and your resources are no more than $2,000 per person.
3. Gather your proof of income and resources.
4. Complete the Healthy Connections application and the Application for Nursing Home, Residential or In-Home Care.
5. Apply through Healthy Connections online or apply by phone at 1-888-549-0820.
6. Answer any follow-up questions from SCDHHS and provide any requested details to help finish your application.

What to expect: After you apply, SCDHHS reviews your information and makes the final decision. If you qualify, you can get full Medicaid benefits, and the state sends the cash assistance payment to the facility. Processing times vary, so ask SCDHHS if you want an estimate. Renew coverage every year to keep benefits going.

Renewals

annual