South Carolina Tax Calculators.
Tax year 2026 income tax rates, brackets, and sales tax for South Carolina. Returns for tax year 2026 are generally filed in 2027; source links and last-verified dates are shown below.Tax year 2026 means income earned during calendar year 2026; those returns are generally filed in 2027. State and local sales tax rates can change during the year, so confirm current rules before filing or remitting tax.
Income Tax
South Carolina has a simplified progressive income tax with 3 effective brackets. The top rate of 6.3% applies to income over $17,330. South Carolina conforms to the federal standard deduction.
| Taxable Income | Rate |
|---|---|
| $0 - $3,460 | 0% |
| $3,460 - $17,330 | 3.0% |
| Over $17,330 | 6.3% |
Sales Tax
Groceries are taxed at a reduced rate of 0% (exempt). Prescription drugs are exempt. Some counties add local option taxes.
South Carolina's top rate of 6.3% is above the national average, but the generous zero bracket and conformity to federal deductions reduce the effective rate for most taxpayers.
What is South Carolina's income tax rate?
South Carolina has a top rate of 6.3% on income over $17,330. The first $3,460 is not taxed, and income from $3,460 to $17,330 is taxed at 3%.
Does South Carolina tax groceries?
Unprepared food is exempt from South Carolina's state sales tax. However, prepared meals are taxable.
How does South Carolina compare for retirees?
South Carolina is very tax-friendly for retirees. Social Security is fully exempt, and there is a generous retirement income deduction of up to $10,000. Property tax benefits for seniors are also available.