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South Carolina Bonus Tax Calculator 2025

Percentage Method
Aggregate Method
Net Bonus Amount
$0.00
Total Tax Withholding
$0.00
Effective Tax Rate
0.00%
Gross Bonus: $0.00
Federal Income Tax (22%): $0.00
SC State Tax: $0.00
Social Security (6.2%): $0.00
Medicare (1.45%): $0.00
Additional Medicare: $0.00
Net Bonus Amount: $0.00
South Carolina Department of Revenue - Income Tax Information
How to Use This Calculator
1
Enter Your Bonus Amount
Input the gross amount of your bonus before any taxes or deductions.
2
Add Personal Information
Enter your annual salary, filing status, and number of allowances for accurate calculations.
3
Select Calculation Method
Choose between percentage method (separate check) or aggregate method (combined with regular pay).
4
Review Your Results
See your net bonus amount and detailed tax breakdown including federal, state, and FICA taxes.

How Much Are Bonuses Taxed in South Carolina?

Your bonus gets taxed in two main ways in South Carolina. You’ll pay federal taxes and state taxes on that extra money.

Here’s what you need to know about bonus taxes in SC:

Federal Tax on Your Bonus

Your employer takes out 22% in federal taxes from your bonus. This happens if you get your bonus in a separate check.

But if your bonus is huge – over $1 million – they take out 37% instead.

This federal rate is the same no matter which state you live in.

South Carolina State Tax on Bonuses

South Carolina follows a simple system for bonus taxes. Your state tax depends on your total income for the year.

South Carolina has three tax rates for 2025:

  • 0% on lower income
  • 3% on middle income
  • 6.2% on higher income

Your bonus gets added to your regular pay. Then SC figures out your tax rate based on that total amount.

Two Ways Your Boss Can Tax Your Bonus

Method 1: Separate Check If your bonus comes in its own check, your employer uses the flat 22% federal rate. They also take out SC state tax based on your income level.

Method 2: Combined with Regular Pay If your bonus comes with your regular paycheck, they add it all together. Then they figure out taxes like it’s one big paycheck.

What This Means for You

Let’s say you get a $1,000 bonus in South Carolina:

  • Federal tax: $220 (22%)
  • SC state tax: $0 to $62 (depends on your income)
  • You keep: $718 to $780

Remember – this is just what gets taken out now. You might get some back when you file your tax return if too much was taken out.

South Carolina Bonus Tax - FAQs

What is the bonus tax rate in South Carolina 2025?

South Carolina uses a flat 22% federal withholding rate for bonuses under $1 million. The state income tax rates are 0%, 3%, and 6.2% based on income levels. Bonuses get taxed like regular income. Your total tax depends on your income bracket.

How much tax will be taken from my bonus in SC?

Your bonus faces federal tax of 22% plus South Carolina state tax. State tax ranges from 0% to 6.2% based on income. Social Security and Medicare taxes also apply at 7.65%. Total withholding can be 30% to 36% of your bonus.

How do I calculate bonus taxes in South Carolina?

Use the percentage method for separate bonus checks. Multiply your bonus by 22% for federal withholding. Add state tax based on your bracket. Include Social Security (6.2%) and Medicare (1.45%) taxes. Online calculators make this process easier.

Are bonuses taxed differently than regular pay in SC?

Bonuses are taxed the same as regular pay for income taxes, Medicare, and Social Security. The difference is in withholding methods. Employers can use flat 22% withholding or aggregate method. Final tax liability stays the same on your return.

What is the South Carolina state tax on bonuses?

South Carolina has three tax rates: 0%, 3%, and 6.2%. Your bonus gets taxed at your marginal rate. If you earn under $3,200, you pay 0%. Income from $3,200 to $16,040 gets taxed at 3%. Higher amounts face 6.2% tax.

Do I get a refund if too much tax is taken from my bonus?

Yes, you can get a refund when filing taxes. Employers may withhold 22% of your bonus for taxes. If your actual tax rate is lower, you get money back. If it's higher, you owe more. File your tax return to settle the difference.

How is a $10,000 bonus taxed in South Carolina?

A $10,000 bonus faces $2,200 federal withholding (22%). State tax depends on your total income. Add $620 for Social Security tax. Add $145 for Medicare tax. Total withholding could be $3,000 to $3,500 from your bonus.

What is the aggregate method for bonus taxes in SC?

The aggregate method combines your bonus with regular pay. Your employer calculates withholding on the total amount. This method often results in higher withholding. The percentage method uses a flat 22% rate instead.

Are Christmas bonuses taxed in South Carolina?

Yes, Christmas bonuses are taxable income in South Carolina. They face the same tax rules as other bonuses. Your employer withholds a flat 22% for federal taxes. State taxes also apply based on your income. Holiday timing doesn't change tax rules.

How much will I take home from a $5,000 bonus in SC?

From a $5,000 bonus, expect $1,100 federal withholding (22%). State tax adds $0 to $310 depending on income. Social Security takes $310. Medicare takes $72.50. You'll likely take home $3,200 to $3,500 after taxes.

Can I change my withholding to reduce bonus taxes?

You cannot change federal bonus withholding rates. The flat 37% rate applies even if you claim exemption on Form W-4. You can adjust regular paycheck withholding instead. This helps balance your total tax liability for the year.

What forms do I need for South Carolina bonus taxes?

Your employer reports bonus income on Form W-2. South Carolina follows federal income tax laws for individual taxes. File SC1040 for state returns. Keep pay stubs showing bonus withholding. Use these documents when filing your tax return.