Pay Information
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South Carolina State Tax
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Federal Income Tax
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SC State Tax
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FICA (SS + Medicare)
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Gross Pay
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Effective Tax Rate
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South Carolina Income Tax Rates 2024–2025
South Carolina uses a graduated income tax system with rates ranging from 0% to 6.5% depending on taxable income. The state has been phasing down its top rate — it was 7% in 2022 and is scheduled to reach 6% by 2027.
📋 SC 2024 Tax Brackets (Single):
$0–$3,200: 0% | $3,201–$16,040: 3% | $16,041+: 6.5%
Married brackets are doubled.
$0–$3,200: 0% | $3,201–$16,040: 3% | $16,041+: 6.5%
Married brackets are doubled.
What Is Withheld From a South Carolina Paycheck?
- Federal income tax — based on W-4 and IRS withholding tables
- SC state income tax — based on SC W-4 and graduated brackets
- Social Security — 6.2% on wages up to $168,600 (2024)
- Medicare — 1.45% on all wages (plus 0.9% on wages over $200,000)
- Pre-tax deductions — 401(k), health insurance, HSA, FSA
Frequently Asked Questions
What is South Carolina's state income tax rate?
South Carolina's top marginal income tax rate is 6.5% for 2024–2025. The rate applies to taxable income above $16,040 for single filers. Lower income levels are taxed at 0% and 3%. The state is gradually reducing the top rate toward 6% by 2027.
Does South Carolina tax Social Security income?
South Carolina offers a significant deduction for Social Security income. Residents aged 65+ can deduct up to $15,000 of retirement income, and most Social Security benefits are effectively exempt from SC state tax for retirees.
How do I reduce SC state tax withholding?
Submit a South Carolina Employee's Withholding Allowance Certificate (SC W-4) to your employer. Claiming additional allowances or specifying a lower withholding amount will reduce per-paycheck SC tax withholding, though you remain responsible for your actual annual tax liability.
Is there a local income tax in South Carolina?
No. South Carolina does not have any local or city income taxes. Your only income taxes are federal and state. This makes SC paycheck calculations simpler than states like Ohio or Kentucky which have numerous local tax jurisdictions.