Where to Pay Sales Tax in Myrtle Beach, SC
Discover where to pay sales tax in Myrtle Beach, SC, including local offices, online options, and tips for businesses and visitors.
If you're in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and need to pay sales tax, you might wonder where to go or how to handle it. Whether you're a business owner or a visitor making taxable purchases, understanding where and how to pay sales tax is important. I will guide you through the main locations and methods for paying sales tax in Myrtle Beach.
In this article, you'll find clear steps on where to pay sales tax, including local government offices, online portals, and helpful tips to stay compliant. This will help you save time and avoid confusion during your visit or business operations in Myrtle Beach.
Understanding Sales Tax in Myrtle Beach, SC
Myrtle Beach is part of Horry County in South Carolina. The state sales tax rate is 6%, but local taxes add to this. Myrtle Beach has a local sales tax rate of 1%, making the total sales tax 7% for most purchases.
Sales tax applies to many goods and services, including retail sales, accommodations, and prepared food. Businesses must collect and remit sales tax regularly to the state. Visitors pay sales tax at the point of purchase.
State sales tax rate: 6%
Myrtle Beach local sales tax: 1%
Total sales tax rate: 7%
Applies to most retail goods, hotel stays, and meals
Where Can You Pay Sales Tax in Myrtle Beach?
If you are a business owner or vendor, you need to remit collected sales tax to the South Carolina Department of Revenue (SCDOR). Here are your main options for paying sales tax in Myrtle Beach:
1. Online Payment via SCDOR Website
The easiest way to pay sales tax is online. The South Carolina Department of Revenue offers a secure portal where you can file returns and pay taxes electronically.
Visit the SCDOR website at dor.sc.gov
Create or log in to your business account
File your sales tax return and submit payment
Payments can be made by electronic check or credit/debit card
This method is fast and available 24/7, so you don’t need to visit an office in person.
2. In-Person Payment at Local Government Offices
While most payments are handled online, you can visit local offices for assistance or to pay in person.
Horry County Government Center: Located at 1301 2nd Avenue, Conway, SC, about 15 miles from Myrtle Beach. They can provide guidance but do not process payments directly.
Myrtle Beach City Hall: At 2950 Robert M Grissom Parkway, Myrtle Beach, SC. City Hall handles local business licenses and permits but not direct sales tax payments.
For direct payment, the SCDOR main office in Columbia handles in-person payments, but this is less convenient for Myrtle Beach residents.
3. Payment by Mail
If you prefer, you can mail your sales tax return and payment to the SCDOR. Make sure to send it to the correct address and include your account details.
Mail to: South Carolina Department of Revenue, Columbia, SC
Include your business ID and return form
Use certified mail to track your payment
Mail payments take longer to process, so plan ahead to avoid late fees.
How Visitors Pay Sales Tax in Myrtle Beach
As a visitor, you usually pay sales tax at the time of purchase. Retailers, restaurants, and hotels include the sales tax in your bill. You do not need to pay sales tax separately.
Here are some common examples:
Hotel stays include a 7% sales tax plus local accommodations taxes
Restaurants add sales tax to your meal bill
Retail stores charge sales tax on most goods
If you rent a car, expect sales tax on the rental fee as well. Keep your receipts if you need to track expenses.
Tips for Businesses Paying Sales Tax in Myrtle Beach
Running a business in Myrtle Beach means you must stay on top of sales tax rules. Here are some tips to help you manage payments smoothly:
Register your business with SCDOR to get a sales tax license
File sales tax returns on time—monthly, quarterly, or annually depending on your volume
Keep accurate records of all sales and tax collected
Use the SCDOR online portal for easy filing and payment
Contact SCDOR customer service for help with questions or problems
Failing to pay sales tax on time can lead to penalties and interest, so be sure to stay compliant.
Local Resources and Contacts for Sales Tax Help
If you need assistance with sales tax in Myrtle Beach, these resources can help:
South Carolina Department of Revenue: Call 1-844-898-8542 for business tax questions
Horry County Business License Office: 843-915-5350 for local permits and licenses
Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce: 843-916-7222 for business support and guidance
These contacts can guide you on where to pay sales tax, how to file returns, and other tax-related questions.
Common Questions About Paying Sales Tax in Myrtle Beach
Many people ask about deadlines, rates, and exemptions. Here are some quick answers:
When is sales tax due? Due dates depend on your filing frequency but are usually monthly or quarterly.
Are there exemptions? Some goods like groceries and prescription drugs are exempt from sales tax.
Can I pay sales tax late? Yes, but penalties and interest apply.
Conclusion
Paying sales tax in Myrtle Beach, SC, is straightforward once you know where to go and how to do it. Most businesses pay online through the South Carolina Department of Revenue portal. Visitors pay sales tax at the point of sale, so you don’t need to worry about separate payments.
Use the local resources and contacts if you have questions or need help. Staying on top of sales tax rules will keep your business running smoothly and your visit hassle-free. Now you know exactly where and how to pay sales tax in Myrtle Beach.
FAQs
Where do businesses in Myrtle Beach pay their sales tax?
Businesses pay sales tax to the South Carolina Department of Revenue, mostly through their online portal. Some may mail payments, but local offices do not process payments directly.
Can visitors pay sales tax directly in Myrtle Beach?
No, visitors pay sales tax included in their purchase price at stores, restaurants, and hotels. There is no separate payment needed.
What is the total sales tax rate in Myrtle Beach?
The total sales tax rate is 7%, combining South Carolina’s 6% state tax and Myrtle Beach’s 1% local tax.
Are there any sales tax exemptions in Myrtle Beach?
Yes, some items like groceries, prescription medicines, and certain services are exempt from sales tax in Myrtle Beach.
Where can I get help with sales tax questions in Myrtle Beach?
You can contact the South Carolina Department of Revenue, Horry County Business License Office, or the Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce for assistance with sales tax questions.