If you live or work in Columbia, here's what you'll pay in South Carolina state income tax in 2026. With a top rate of 6.25%, your South Carolina state tax will vary based on your income and filing status. Use the calculator below to estimate your take-home pay.
South Carolina uses graduated tax brackets, with rates ranging from low single digits to 6.25% at the highest income levels. Higher earners pay a higher marginal rate, but the overall burden depends on your total income, deductions, and credits.
Top marginal rate: 6.25%
Tax structure: Graduated brackets
State capital: Columbia
2026 brackets: Progressive brackets from 1% to 6.25%
Columbia does not have a local city income tax, so you only pay federal and South Carolina state income tax.
As a Columbia resident, your total tax burden is federal + South Carolina state. Property taxes and sales taxes apply separately.
Generally, you pay state income tax in the state where you live, not where you work. If you commute from another state, you typically pay that state's tax. Some states have reciprocity agreements that simplify this. South Carolina has reciprocity agreements with several neighboring states. Check with your employer or tax professional.
South Carolina has multiple tax brackets. Lower-income earners pay lower rates, while top earners pay up to 6.25%. Standard deduction and personal exemptions apply.
For 2026 returns, the South Carolina state tax deadline is typically April 15, 2027 (same as federal). Extensions follow federal rules. If you file for an extension federally, you typically get an automatic state extension too.
You can deduct state and local income taxes (SALT) on your federal Schedule A, capped at $10,000 total for state + local + property taxes. This is most useful if you itemize. Most people take the standard deduction and don't get this benefit.
No. If you moved out of South Carolina before earning any income, you don't need to file a South Carolina return. You'll file in your new state of residence.
Traditional 401(k) and IRA contributions reduce your federal taxable income. Most states (including South Carolina) also reduce your state taxable income. The 2026 limit is $24,500 for 401(k) and $7,500 for IRA (with catch-up if 50+).
Health Savings Accounts offer a triple tax advantage: deductible going in, tax-free growth, tax-free for medical. South Carolina follows federal HSA rules (contributions are deductible from state income).
If you're in a high tax bracket, deferring bonuses or consulting income to the next year can lower your effective rate. Self-employed? S-Corp election can save self-employment tax.
If you have a mortgage and high property taxes, itemizing may beat the standard deduction. The SALT cap is $10K but most people in Columbia benefit when combined with mortgage interest.
⚠️ Estimate. This calculator provides an approximation based on 2026 federal and South Carolina state tax rates. Local taxes, credits, and deductions vary. Consult a tax professional for personalized advice.