Last updated: May 30, 2020

South Carolina LLC Annual Report

Note: Most South Carolina LLCs do not have to file an Annual Report.

For the majority of people (with LLCs taxed as Sole Proprietorships or Partnerships), there is no action needed here.

However, if your LLC is taxed as a C-Corp or your LLC is taxed as an S-Corp, then you must first file Form CL-1, the “Initial Report of Corporations”. The fee is $25 (made payable to the “Secretary of State”) and Form CL-1 must be filed within 60 days of your LLC being formed.

After filing Form CL-1, LLCs taxed as C-Corporations and LLCs taxed as S-Corporations, then must file Form SC 1120 or Form SC 1120S on an annual basis with the South Carolina Department of Revenue. They are due by the 15th day of the third month after the close of the taxable year, which for most businesses will be March 15th.

You will need a South Carolina State Tax ID Number before filing Form SC 1120 or SC 1120S. You can register online with the South Carolina Department of Revenue.

• South Carolina LLCs taxed as C-Corps can find instructions and more information here.

• South Carolina LLCs taxed as S-Corps can find instructions and more information here.

If you have any questions about the above, you can contact the South Carolina Department of Revenue at 803-898-5000, or hire a local accountant. If you need help finding an accountant, please see our recommendation here.

Not sure how your LLC is taxed?

By default:

– Single-Member LLCs are taxed by the IRS like a Sole Proprietorship.
– Multi-Member LLCs are taxed by the IRS like a Partnership.

Electing C-Corp or S-Corp taxation with the IRS has certain advantages (or disadvantages) depending on your situation. Please have a conversation with your accountant to see if either of these make sense for your LLC.

The LLC taxed as an S-Corporation is a common setup for those who want to save money on self-employment taxes, but most accountants will need your net income (income after expenses) to be around $65,000 to $75,000 per year. Having said that, different tax professionals have different opinions on when (if ever) it makes sense to have your LLC taxed as an S-Corp. Please make sure to speak with them before filing any forms with the IRS.

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Matt Horwitz

Founder & Educator, LLC University®

Forming an LLC shouldn't be so complicated. Our step-by-step guide will make the process a breeze – and no complex legal jargon! LLC University® teaches people how to form an LLC for free in all 50 states. We hope you find our free guides and resources helpful in your business journey.

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