South Carolina Self-Employment Tax Calculator

Calculate your self-employment tax, federal income tax, and South Carolina state income tax as a freelancer or 1099 contractor. South Carolina has a progressive income tax with rates from 0% to 6.

Annual Tax Breakdown

1099 Income
$85,000
Business Expenses
-$10,000
Net Profit
$75,000
Net Earnings (92.35%)(SE tax base)
$69,263
Social Security (12.4%)
-$8,589
Medicare (2.9%+)
-$2,009
Total SE Tax
-$10,597
SE Deduction (50%)(reduces income tax)
$5,299
Federal Income Tax
-$6,794
State Income Tax
-$4,107
Total Tax Owed
$21,498

Summary

Total Income
$75,000
Total Taxes
-$21,498
After-Tax Income
$53,502
Effective Tax Rate(on total income)
28.7%

Quarterly Estimated Payments

Q1 (Jan-Mar)Due April 15
$5,375
Q2 (Apr-May)Due June 15
$5,375
Q3 (Jun-Aug)Due September 15
$5,375
Q4 (Sep-Dec)Due January 15 (next year)
$5,375
Each Quarterly Payment
$5,375

Tax Breakdown

See your complete freelancer financial picture

Your estimated quarterly tax payment is $5,375. Model your freelance income alongside expenses, savings, and investments in the full simulator.

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South Carolina Tax Overview for Freelancers

South Carolina has a progressive income tax with rates from 0% to 6.4%. The first $3,460 of income is taxed at 0%. Self-employed individuals in South Carolina pay federal self-employment tax (15.3%) plus federal income tax, and South Carolina state income tax on their net self-employment earnings.

Progressive rates up to 6.4%0% bracket on first $3,460No tax on Social SecurityRapidly growing metro areas

Self-Employment Taxes in South Carolina

If you work as a freelancer or independent contractor in South Carolina, your tax situation involves multiple layers: federal self-employment tax, federal income tax, and South Carolina state income tax. Understanding how each component works helps you plan your quarterly estimated payments and maximize your deductions.

South Carolina Income Tax for Freelancers

South Carolina has a progressive income tax with rates from 0% to 6.4%. The first $3,460 of income is taxed at 0%.

Cost of Living for Freelancers in South Carolina

South Carolina's cost of living is about 8% below the national average. As a freelancer in South Carolina, your effective earnings depend not just on your tax rate but also on what your after-tax income can buy. Consider local costs for housing, coworking spaces, and daily expenses when setting your rates.

Financial Tips for South Carolina Freelancers

  • South Carolina's 0% bracket on the first $3,460 provides a small tax break for all earners
  • South Carolina has a low cost of living and is growing rapidly
  • South Carolina does not tax Social Security benefits
  • Charleston and Greenville-Spartanburg are growing job markets in tech and manufacturing

Key South Carolina Tax Features

  • Progressive rates up to 6.4%
  • 0% bracket on first $3,460
  • No tax on Social Security
  • Rapidly growing metro areas

Model Your South Carolina Freelance Finances Over Time

This calculator shows your South Carolina tax bill. Trajectoryy's full simulator models your freelance income alongside expenses, savings, investments, and more — month by month for years into the future.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How is self-employment tax calculated in South Carolina?
Self-employed workers in South Carolina pay federal self-employment tax (15.3% on 92.35% of net earnings), federal income tax, and South Carolina state income tax. South Carolina has a progressive income tax with rates from 0% to 6.4%. The first $3,460 of income is taxed at 0%.
How much will I owe in quarterly taxes as a freelancer in South Carolina?
Your quarterly estimated tax payment in South Carolina depends on your total tax liability — including SE tax, federal income tax, and South Carolina state income tax. Use the calculator above to estimate your quarterly payments. As a general rule, freelancers should set aside 25-35% of their net income for taxes.
What business deductions are available for South Carolina freelancers?
Freelancers in South Carolina can deduct the same federal business expenses as in any state: home office, equipment, software, health insurance, vehicle expenses, and more. These deductions also reduce your South Carolina state taxable income, providing additional state tax savings.
Does South Carolina have any special taxes for self-employed workers?
South Carolina does not have a separate self-employment tax. However, your net self-employment income is subject to South Carolina's regular income tax (6.4% top rate) in addition to federal self-employment tax and federal income tax.
Should I form an LLC or S-Corp as a freelancer in South Carolina?
The decision to form an LLC or S-Corp in South Carolina depends on your income level. Generally, if your net self-employment income exceeds $50,000-$60,000, an S-Corp election may save you money by allowing you to pay yourself a reasonable salary (subject to FICA/Medicare) while taking the rest as distributions (not subject to SE tax). Consult a South Carolina tax professional for advice specific to your situation.

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