Reminder: South Carolina Tax Deadline Extended to May 1 – Not April 15

If you haven’t filed your 2024 South Carolina Individual Income Tax return yet, you’re not alone—and you’re not late either. Thanks to relief efforts following Hurricane Helene, the South Carolina Department of Revenue (SCDOR) extended the traditional April 15 deadline to May 1, 2025 for all individual income tax filers in the state.

This extension provides much-needed breathing room for those impacted by the storm, allowing more time to prepare and submit returns without penalties. However, with the new deadline just around the corner, the SCDOR is urging taxpayers not to wait until the last minute.

Key Details to Know:

• May 1, 2025 is now the deadline for:

  • Filing your 2024 South Carolina Individual Income Tax return

  • Filing 2023 returns on extension, originally due October 15, 2024

  • Making your first 2025 estimated tax payment, originally due April 15, 2025

• If you are required to file a return in another state, be sure to verify that state’s filing deadline. Some states may still require submission by April 15.

Tips for a Smooth Filing Process:

• File electronically using a trusted provider to minimize errors and speed up processing.

• If you owe taxes, submit your payment securely at dor.sc.gov/pay.

• Expecting a refund? Direct deposit is the fastest, safest method to receive your funds. Keep in mind that it can take up to 8 weeks for the SCDOR to process returns and issue refunds.

• Track your refund online anytime at dor.sc.gov/refund.

Need More Time?

If you anticipate needing additional time to gather your tax documents, you can request an extension. But remember, an extension to file is not an extension to pay—interest and penalties may still apply to unpaid balances.

Don’t Forget to Update Your Address

If you’ve moved since filing your last return, be sure to update your address with the SCDOR to avoid delays in processing:

• If filing online, you may be prompted to confirm your address.

• If not prompted, you can update your address using your MyDORWAY account by selecting More > Manage Names & Addresses.

• If you don’t use MyDORWAY, submit a completed SC8822I form.

• For paper returns, check the “new address” box on the SC1040 and include your current mailing address.

Protect Your Information

If you’re hiring a tax professional, take time to ask the right questions about their credentials and how they protect your sensitive information. Choosing a reputable preparer is crucial to avoid tax fraud and identity theft.

For full details, visit the South Carolina Department of Revenue’s website at dor.sc.gov.

With just a few weeks left before the May 1 deadline, South Carolina filers are encouraged to take advantage of the extra time and file accurately and securely.