Deadline Approaching: Clinton Accommodations Tax Applications Due September 15

The City of Clinton is accepting applications for Accommodations Tax (A-Tax) funding for the 2025–2026 fiscal year. Local organizations seeking support for tourism-related projects must submit their completed applications no later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, September 15, 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Purpose of Accommodations Tax Funding

The South Carolina General Assembly first enacted accommodations tax legislation in 1984 to help areas with high tourism activity manage increased needs for services such as law enforcement, traffic control, and public facilities. The goal is not to replace municipal services, but to promote tourism and expand its economic benefits through advertising, cultural programming, and facilities that attract and provide for visitors.

Tourism, as defined by state law, refers to people traveling at least 50 miles outside of their home communities for any purpose other than daily commuting.

How Funds Are Allocated

Under state law, revenues from the accommodations tax are distributed in the following manner:

• The first $25,000 is allocated to the City of Clinton’s General Fund.

• An additional 5% of the balance also goes to the General Fund.

• 30% of the remaining funds must be used for advertising and promotion of tourism.

• The remaining balance is designated for other tourism-related expenditures, including:

  • Advertising and promotion of tourism

  • Arts and cultural projects/events

  • Civic and cultural facilities

  • Public facilities and services

  • Tourist transportation

  • Visitors centers

  • Waterfront erosion

  • Other approved tourism-related needs

Advisory Committee Review

Applications will be reviewed by the Clinton Accommodations Tax Advisory Committee, a seven-member body that includes at least two members of the local lodging industry. The committee will forward its recommendations to Clinton City Council, which has final approval authority.

Notifications of funding results will be issued during the second quarter of the 2025–2026 fiscal year (October–December 2025).

Application Requirements

Applicants must provide:

• A completed Accommodations Tax application form

• A current financial statement

• W-9 form

• A copy of their 990 tax form (if applicable)

• A list of current board members

• A list of all paid staff members (full- and part-time)

Applications should be submitted to the Finance Department at the M.S. Bailey Municipal Center, either by mail to P.O. Box 748, Clinton, SC 29325, or delivered in person to 211 N. Broad Street, Suite A, Clinton, SC 29325.

Accountability and Oversight

Recipient organizations are subject to audits and ongoing evaluation by City staff. All projects must be completed within the fiscal year of funding, which runs July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026. Organizations are encouraged to seek additional or alternative funding sources to foster long-term sustainability.

Don’t Miss the Deadline

Local organizations that enhance Clinton’s tourism efforts are urged to apply. The City reminds applicants to carefully review the full application guidelines before submitting their requests. Don’t miss this opportunity to secure funding for your tourism-related project—applications close September 15.