Quick Answer: This blog provides instructions on how to file and pay sales tax returns in South Carolina using form ST-3. This is the only form used by South Carolina to report sales tax.
Once you have an active sales tax permit in South Carolina you will need to begin filing sales tax returns. Not sure if you need a permit in South Carolina? No problem. Check out our blog, Do You Need to Get a Sales Tax Permit in South Carolina.
Also, If you would rather ask someone else to handle your South Carolina filings, our team at TaxValet can handle that for you with our Done-for-You Sales Tax Service. We specialize in eliminating the stress and hassle of sales tax.
We will begin with simple step-by-step instructions for logging on to the website in order to file your sales tax return for South Carolina.
Step 1: Follow this link, https://mydorway.dor.sc.gov/_/#1, and you will come to this screen:
Step 2: Sign in with your username and password.
If you do not have a username & password then your first step is setting that up. Your username and password are generally created when you submit registration paperwork for a sales tax permit.
Step 3: You will be directed to your dashboard for that state. Once you come to the dashboard, select the account for which you want to file a return by clicking the “Sales and Use Tax” link just to the left of the proper account type.
Step 4: Next, you will be directed to this page. As you can see by the filing periods listed, this business files sales tax returns monthly. Click into the correct period. Then, navigate to the right side of the screen and select “File or amend a return.”
Step 5: This is the step where it starts to get interesting. The first two questions are usually left blank unless they pertain to your situation. You will now be entering in your gross sales on line item #1 and out-of-state purchases on line item #2. If you have any deductions, now is the time to enter them too. In order to do that, click on the “View/Edit State Deductions” button (line item #4).
Once you are confident that your figures are correct click “Next.”
Step 6: It is now time to enter your local taxes. You may add as many counties/municipalities as needed. Once finished, click “Next.”
Once complete, make sure to review the information. If you need to make changes, click “Previous.” If not, then you are ready to move on and should click “Next.”
The final step in filing your sales tax return will be a screen with a summary of all of the data that you have entered. Make sure to double-check that your numbers are correct then submit your return.
Hooray! You now have filed your sales tax return!
Make sure to save the confirmation number that comes up on the screen. We also recommend saving and/or printing a copy of your return for your records.
From your homepage, you can select “Make a Payment” under the “I Want To” section. Once you select “Make a Payment” you should see this screen. Enter your payment information here.
Next, enter your banking information and confirm. It is as simple as that. You have now made a payment! Be sure to save the confirmation number for your records.
If you forgot to print or save a copy of your sales tax return, don’t fret. You can easily go back into the period to view and/or print the return that you just filed. Go back to the dashboard and click into the period that you just filed. Under “I Want To” click “File or amend a return.” Follow the “Print Return” link to print or save a copy for your records.
Lastly, here is the contact information for the state if case you end up needing help:
Normal phone hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 4:45 p.m. and Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. until 4:45 p.m.
Sales & Use (Except Accommodations & Solid Waste):
1-844-898-8542 Option 3, then Option 3
Email: SalesTax@dor.sc.gov
But if you are looking for a team of experts to handle your sales tax returns for you each month, you should check out our Done-for-You Sales Tax Service. Feel free to contact us if you’re interested in becoming a client!