How to Use This Calculator
Enter your income, filing status, and any deductions. The calculator computes your South Carolina state income tax alongside your federal tax, showing exactly how much goes to each and what you take home.
The most useful thing to try? Compare different income levels to see how South Carolina's brackets affect your tax bill, then look at how combined federal + state taxes shape your total take-home pay.
Here's what each field means:
Annual Income is your total earnings before any taxes. Include wages, freelance income, investment income, and any other sources.
Filing Status determines which set of tax brackets and deductions apply. South Carolina uses filing statuses similar to the federal system — single, married filing jointly, married filing separately, and head of household.
South Carolina Income Tax: What You Need to Know
South Carolina uses a progressive income tax system with rates ranging from 0% to 6.2%. Like the federal system, this means your income is taxed in layers — each bracket only applies to the income within that range, not your entire income.
South Carolina Tax Brackets (Single Filers)
| Taxable Income | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| $0 - $3,460 | 0% |
| $3,460 - $17,330 | 3% |
| $17,330+ | 6.2% |
A Real Example
Let's say you're a single filer earning $65,000 in South Carolina. After applying the standard deduction of $14,600, your income flows through each bracket:
Your approximate South Carolina state income tax would be around $2,821, for an effective state tax rate of about 4.3%.
Remember, this is just the state portion. You'll also owe federal income tax and FICA taxes on top of this.
Deductions and Exemptions
Standard Deduction: South Carolina offers a standard deduction of $14,600 for single filers and $29,200 for married couples filing jointly.
Federal standard deduction conformity, retirement income deduction ($10,000, or $15,000 for 65+), full Social Security exemption, full military retirement pay deduction, and a two-earner deduction for working couples.
Local Taxes
No local income taxes in South Carolina.
What's Unique About South Carolina
South Carolina recently simplified its bracket structure from six brackets to effectively three, with the top rate declining from 6.5% to 6.2% in 2025. The state conforms to the federal standard deduction. South Carolina is very tax-friendly for retirees: Social Security is fully exempt, and there's a $10,000 retirement income deduction for all taxpayers (increasing to $15,000 at age 65+). Military retirement pay is also fully deductible. The state plans to continue reducing the top rate to 5.7% by 2027.
Recent Changes
Top rate reduced from 6.5% to 6.2% in 2025, with further cuts planned to 5.7% by 2027. Bracket simplification from six brackets to three.
How to Use This Calculator Strategically
Model a raise or job change. See how additional income moves through South Carolina's brackets and affects your effective tax rate.
Compare filing statuses. If you're married, run the numbers both jointly and separately. The better option depends on your specific income situation.
Plan your deductions. Test how maximizing retirement contributions or other deductions affects your South Carolina tax bill.
Evaluate a move. Compare South Carolina's rates to other states you're considering. The difference in take-home pay might surprise you.
References
- South Carolina Department of Revenue. (2025). Individual Income Tax.
This calculator is for educational purposes only and does not constitute tax or financial advice. Tax rates, brackets, and rules change regularly. Consult a qualified tax professional for guidance specific to your situation.