SCSouth Carolina pay rules
Minimum wage $7.25. Overtime after 40 hours in a week. If you are fired, your last check is due within 48 hours or the next regular payday, whichever comes first.
South Carolina minimum wage$7.25 now
South Carolina overtime lawsWeekly overtime after 40 hours
South Carolina final paycheck lawFired: within 48 hours or the next regular payday, whichever comes first
South Carolina PTO payout lawDepends on written policy
| Rule | South Carolina | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum wage | $7.25 an hour since July 24, 2009. No change planned. No state minimum wage law. The federal rate applies to covered employers. | read the rulechecked October 29, 2026 |
| Cash pay if you get tips | At least $2.13 an hour. Tips may make up the rest, up to $5.12. Federal rule. | read the rulechecked October 29, 2026 |
| Overtime | Federal rule only: 1.5x after 40 hours in a work week. South Carolina has no state overtime law. | Federal wage law, 29 U.S.C. 207checked October 29, 2026 |
| Last check if fired | Within 48 hours or the next regular payday, whichever comes first (no later than 30 days) | S.C. Code 41-10-50, 41-10-80checked October 29, 2026 |
| Last check if you quit | Within 48 hours or the next regular payday, whichever comes first (no later than 30 days) | S.C. Code 41-10-50, 41-10-80checked October 29, 2026 |
| If the last check is late | Payment of Wages Act: up to three times the unpaid amount plus fees if you file a wage complaint. | S.C. Code 41-10-50, 41-10-80checked October 29, 2026 |
| Unused vacation when you leave | Depends on your employer's written policy. The employer's written policy or contract governs payout of unused vacation. | read the rulechecked October 29, 2026 |
| Meal break | No state meal period requirement for adults. | read the rulechecked October 29, 2026 |
| Rest break | No state rest period requirement. | read the rulechecked October 29, 2026 |
These rules cover the whole state. Cities and industries with their own rules are noted in the table. Checked October 29, 2026. Next check: January 1, 2027.