South Carolina rules
How South Carolina taxes your paycheck in 2026
South Carolina has been steadily cutting its top income-tax rate, down to 6.2% for 2026. The South Carolina Department of Revenue taxes nothing on the lowest band of income and then jumps to the top rate, so the system blends a meaningful zero-rate floor with a relatively high ceiling.
South Carolina's 2026 brackets
| Rate | Taxable income |
|---|---|
| 0% | $0 – $3,560 |
| 3% | $3,560 – $17,830 |
| 6.2% | $17,830 and up |
Approximate inflation-indexed 2026 thresholds. South Carolina conforms closely to the federal standard deduction.
Federal-conforming deductions
South Carolina starts from federal taxable income and largely conforms to the federal standard deduction, which this calculator applies first. Because the 6.2% top rate begins around $17,830 of taxable income, most full-time salaries are taxed at the top rate on their upper dollars.
Comparing South Carolina to other states
South Carolina's 6.2% top rate is higher than flat-tax North Carolina next door, but the 0% floor softens the bite for lower earners. Compare with Georgia or no-tax Florida.
Questions
South Carolina salary calculator FAQ
What is the South Carolina income tax rate for 2026?
South Carolina taxes nothing on the first band of income, then applies a 3% rate and a top rate of 6.2% for 2026, per the South Carolina Department of Revenue. The top rate is on a legislated path to fall further.
How much is taken out of a paycheck in South Carolina?
A South Carolina paycheck is reduced by federal income tax, 6.2% Social Security, 1.45% Medicare and South Carolina state income tax (up to 6.2%). On a $58,000 single salary, total deductions are roughly 24% to 26%.
Does South Carolina have a standard deduction?
South Carolina largely conforms to the federal standard deduction — about $16,100 single and $32,200 married filing jointly for 2026 — and starts from federal taxable income, which this calculator applies before the state brackets.
What is the take-home pay on $58,000 in South Carolina?
A single filer earning $58,000 in South Carolina takes home roughly $45,000 a year after federal tax, FICA and the progressive state income tax. Use the calculator above for your exact figure.
- Sources: South Carolina Department of Revenue (2026 brackets; top rate 6.2%) · IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-32 · SSA 2026 wage base.
- 🔄 Last updated June 9, 2026 · Tax year 2026
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