Tips to Learning about South Carolina Property Taxes
Do you understand the South Carolina Tax System?
It can be tricky, particularly if you are new to the state or considering a move. Many people hear that South Carolina is a great place to move because of its low Property Taxes. Then, when they move to the area, they are confused by the process and how to calculate what to expect when their tax bill arrives. While I don’t claim to be an expert on the topic of SC taxes, here are some tips to help avoid surprises during the process! Be sure to read further to find links to Charleston, Berkeley and Dorchester County Tax Estimator feature.
SOUTH CAROLINA TAX SYSTEM FACTS:
-Calculated in millage (not to be confused with the miles on your car)
-Millage is the number of dollars of taxes assessed for every $1,000 of your property’s value
-Primary homeowners are assessed at a 4% rate and 6% is assessed for non-residency
-A resident is an individual that is domiciled in South Carolina or an individual who intends to maintain a home in South Carolina and South Carolina is the center of their financial, social and family life.
-You must apply for the Primary/Resident tax exemption.
-You will automatically be taxed at the 6% rate if you do not apply and provide the proper documentation
CURIOUS ABOUT WHAT YOUR TAXES MIGHT BE IF YOU MOVE TO SC?
Please don’t simply multiply the value of a home times 4% or 6%. That is not how to estimate SC taxes. By following the links provided below, you can choose the county the home is located in and let the tax experts do the calculating for you! Remember it is calculated in millage (per $1,000), so it gets a little tricky, but these links help.
Charleston County Estimator: www.charlestoncounty.org/departments/auditor/tax-estimator.php
Berkeley County Estimator: https://berkeleycountysc.gov/dept/auditor/tax-estimator/
Dorchester County Estimator: https://www.dorchestercountysc.gov/government/property-tax-services/assessor/tax-estimator
STEPS TO TAKE WHEN YOU’VE MADE YOUR MOVE:
#1 Register for SC Driver’s License, Voter’s Registration & prepare copies of tax documents with your SC address
#2 Visit your county’s website to educate yourself on the South Carolina tax system, laws and proper way to receive any exemptions that might be available to you. *If you are 65 and older, be sure to research the Homestead Exemption benefit!
Charleston County Forms/Application: https://www.charlestoncounty.org/tax-exemptions.php
Berkeley County Forms/Application: https://berkeleycountysc.gov/dept/realprop/
Dorchester County Forms/Application: https://www.dorchestercountysc.gov/government/property-tax- services/assessor/forms-documents
#3 Once you have begun the online application process, it’s a good idea to follow up via a phone call to ensure your information has been received and is being processed. It’s a busy office and if there is anything missing in your documentation or forms, you will want to respond and provide the info ASAP to steer clear of missing out on any possible exemptions.
