Use our South Carolina Paycheck Calculator to quickly figure out how much you’ll take home after taxes. Just enter your salary, pay frequency, and deductions to get a detailed breakdown of your gross pay, taxes, and net pay in seconds.
How Your South Carolina Paycheck is Calculated
Your paycheck amount depends on how much is withheld for taxes and other deductions. The basic formula is:
Gross Pay – (Federal Taxes + State Taxes + Local Taxes + FICA) = Net Pay
Here’s what each part means:
- Gross Pay: Your total earnings before taxes or deductions.
- Federal Income Tax: Based on IRS tax brackets, your filing status, and the number of dependents or allowances you claim.
- FICA Taxes: Social Security and Medicare taxes that fund federal benefit programs.
- State Income Tax: South Carolina’s progressive income tax rate, which varies depending on your taxable income.
- Local Taxes: Most South Carolina cities and counties do not impose a separate local income tax.
A Guide to South Carolina State Payroll Taxes
South Carolina State Income Tax
South Carolina uses a progressive income tax system with multiple brackets. The 2025 South Carolina state income tax rates for single filers are shown below:
| Taxable Income Range | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| Up to $3,470 | 0% |
| $3,471 – $6,930 | 3% |
| $6,931 – $10,410 | 4% |
| $10,411 – $13,880 | 5% |
| $13,881 – $17,330 | 6% |
| Over $17,330 | 6.4% |
South Carolina provides a standard deduction of $13,850 for single filers and $27,700 for married couples filing jointly, matching the federal standard deduction amounts. The state also allows various exemptions and credits that may reduce your taxable income.
State-Specific Programs and Withholdings
South Carolina does not have state disability insurance (SDI) or paid family leave programs that require employee contributions. However, employers contribute to the state unemployment insurance (SUI) fund, which does not affect employee paychecks directly. Employees in South Carolina typically only see deductions for state income tax, federal tax, and FICA taxes on their pay stubs.
Understanding Federal and FICA Taxes
Federal taxes apply nationwide and are a significant part of your paycheck deductions. Your federal withholding depends on your income level, filing status, and W-4 details.
The current FICA tax rates for 2025 are:
- Social Security tax: 6.2% of wages up to $168,600
- Medicare tax: 1.45% of all wages, plus an additional 0.9% for individuals earning over $200,000
These contributions help fund Social Security and Medicare benefits for eligible workers and retirees.
Local Taxes in South Carolina
Most areas in South Carolina, including Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville, do not levy local or municipal income taxes. However, residents still pay local property and sales taxes, which can vary by city or county. For paycheck purposes, you won’t typically see any local income tax deductions in South Carolina.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About South Carolina Paychecks
What is the minimum wage in South Carolina?
As of 2025, South Carolina follows the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. The state has not established its own minimum wage rate.
How often are paydays in South Carolina?
Employers in South Carolina may pay employees weekly, bi-weekly, semi-monthly, or monthly. Most employers choose bi-weekly or semi-monthly schedules for convenience.
What is the South Carolina state tax rate for 2025?
South Carolina’s state income tax rates for 2025 range from 0% to 6.4%, depending on taxable income.
Are 1099 contractors subject to South Carolina taxes?
Yes. Independent contractors must pay South Carolina state income tax on their earnings, as well as federal income and self-employment taxes. Contractors are responsible for making estimated quarterly tax payments.
What are the overtime laws in South Carolina?
South Carolina follows the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Nonexempt employees must receive 1.5 times their regular hourly rate for any hours worked over 40 in a workweek.
Disclaimer
The South Carolina Paycheck Calculator provides an estimate based on 2025 tax rates and general assumptions. Actual results may vary depending on your income, deductions, benefits, and filing status. For personalized tax advice, consult a certified tax professional or financial advisor.