South Carolina Retirement Tax Guide 2026

South Carolina does not tax Social Security benefits at the state level in 2026. Federal treatment still applies — up to 85% of benefits may be federally taxable depending on combined income.

Traditional 401(k) and IRA distributions are taxed as ordinary income at both the federal and South Carolina level (6.40% effective state income tax). Roth distributions, when qualified, are tax-free at both levels.

Plan withdrawals in coordination with Social Security claiming and any pension income to minimize bracket creep. A Roth conversion ladder in the low-income years between retirement and RMDs (age 73 starting 2026) is often a major tax saver.

RMDs start at age 73 under SECURE 2.0 (rising to 75 in 2033). The first RMD year is the year you turn 73; you can defer that first distribution until April 1 of the following year, but doing so forces two RMDs in one tax year and often pushes you into a higher bracket.

Years between retirement and the first RMD are typically the best window for Roth conversions, especially for South Carolina residents where the 6.40% state tax adds to the federal cost. A multi-year ladder filling the 12% or 22% federal bracket can shift large amounts to tax-free Roth status.

Most South Carolina counties offer additional property tax exemptions, freezes, or deferrals for homeowners aged 65+. These can reduce assessed value, lock in the millage rate at the year you turn 65, or defer the entire bill until the home is sold. Eligibility is often income-tested.

On a $400,000 home, South Carolina's 0.57% effective rate produces an annual bill of about $2,280. A 50% senior exemption would save roughly $1,140 per year for the rest of your life in the home — apply through your county assessor in the year you turn 65.