It’s tax time so we’ve been getting lots of questions about South Carolina property taxes lately! Let’s break down exactly how our unique system works, and most importantly, how to save serious money on your tax bill. (Spoiler: Don’t forget that 4% application!)

Table of Contents

South Carolina Property Tax The Basics: 4% vs 6% Rates

Primary Residence (4%):

Owner occupied
Must apply
Primary residence
No other 4% claims
Major savings
Annual verification

Investment/Second Home (6%):

Non-owner occupied
Rental properties
Vacation homes
Second homes
Business property
Default rate

South Carolina Property Tax How to Apply for 4%

County Contacts:

Charleston County:

Website: charlestoncounty.org/departments/assessor
Phone: (843) 958-4100
Deadline: January 15th

Berkeley County:

Website: https://berkeleycountysc.gov/dept/realprop/
Phone: (843) 719-4061
Deadline: January 15th

Dorchester County:

Website: dorchestercountysc.gov/assessor
Phone: (843) 563-0131
Deadline: January 15th

Required Documents:

SC driver’s license
Vehicle registration
Voter registration
Tax returns
Utility bills
Employment info

South Carolina Property Tax Understanding the Assessment

Assessment Process:

Market value x ratio
Millage rates
Local fees
Special districts
School taxes
Municipal taxes

Reassessment Years:

Every 5 years
Market changes
Improvements
Area development
Economic factors
Local budgets

South Carolina Property Tax Tax Bill Components

What You’re Paying For:

School district
County operations
Municipality
Special districts
Debt service
Local projects

Payment Schedule:

Due January 15th
Penalty after
Monthly interest
Payment plans
Online options
Auto-draft available

South Carolina Property Tax Special Considerations

Additional Exemptions:

Senior discount
Disability
Veterans
Homestead
Agricultural
Historic

Legal Protections:

Tax caps
Appeal rights
Payment plans
Hardship cases
Assessment disputes
Exemption appeals

South Carolina Property Tax Common Mistakes

Avoid These:

Missing deadline
Wrong paperwork
Multiple claims
Late registration
Incomplete forms
Address mismatch

Smart Moves:

Apply early
Keep copies
Annual check
Address updates
Status changes
Record keeping

South Carolina Property Tax Appeal Process

When to Appeal:

Overvaluation
Incorrect data
Similar sales
Assessment errors
Classification issues
Special circumstances

How to Appeal:

Contact assessor
Gather evidence
File forms
Meet deadlines
Present case
Follow up

South Carolina Property Tax Money-Saving Tips

Smart Strategies:

Apply immediately
Check assessment
Review bill
Track deadlines
Keep records
Annual review

Watch For:

Rate changes
Special assessments
Local bonds
School taxes
Municipal fees
Assessment updates

South Carolina Property Tax Your Action Plan

First Steps:

Check current rate
Gather documents
Submit application
Verify status
Set reminders
Keep records

Need Help?

At TSG Real Estate, we guide our clients through the property tax process and help ensure you’re getting the best possible rate.

We’ll help you:

Apply correctly
Meet deadlines
Track status
Save money
Stay compliant
Handle appeals
Questions about property taxes? Let’s talk:

Call/Text: (843) 900-4692
Email: [email protected]

P.S. Just bought a home? Apply for that 4% application – it’s too important to miss!

South Carolina Property Tax Guide: How to Save Thousands on Your Home’s Tax Bill