Verified against official state labor departments Updated for 2026

South Carolina Minimum Wage (2026)

The current South Carolina minimum wage, how tipped and youth pay work, the state's overtime rules, and the labor laws that go with your paycheck.

Updated for 2026 Last verified: Jun 10, 2026
Basic minimum wage
$7.25 /hr
Federal rate applies
Tipped cash wage
$2.13 /hr
Tip credit allowed
Federal floor
At the floor
No higher state minimum

South Carolina does not set a minimum wage above the federal level, so employers covered by the Fair Labor Standards Act must pay the federal minimum of $7.25 per hour. South Carolina has no state minimum wage law, so the federal rate applies.

Wage rates for 2026

Basic minimum wage
$7.25 per hour
Tip credit
Yes Allowed
Tipped cash wage
$2.13 per hour
Youth / training wage
Federal youth wage of $4.25/hour applies to workers under 20 for their first 90 days.

Overtime & premium pay

TypeRequirement
Weekly40 hours (1.5x)

South Carolina has no state minimum wage law and follows the federal $7.25 under the FLSA.

Related labor laws in South Carolina

Paid sick leave

Not required by state law.

Overtime

Overtime is required after 40 hours (1.5x) in a week. South Carolina has no state minimum wage law and follows the federal $7.25 under the FLSA.

Pay frequency & final paycheck

Rules for how often employees must be paid and when a final paycheck is due vary. Confirm the current requirements with the South Carolina Department of Labor.

Common questions

South Carolina minimum wage FAQ

What is the minimum wage in South Carolina for 2026?
South Carolina does not set a higher state minimum, so the rate is the federal $7.25 per hour for employers covered by the Fair Labor Standards Act.
What are the overtime rules in South Carolina?
Overtime is required after 40 hours (1.5x) in a week. South Carolina has no state minimum wage law and follows the federal $7.25 under the FLSA.
What is the tipped minimum wage in South Carolina?
South Carolina allows a tip credit. The tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, as long as tips bring the worker up to the full minimum wage.
Is there a youth or training minimum wage in South Carolina?
Federal youth wage of $4.25/hour applies to workers under 20 for their first 90 days.
Does South Carolina require paid sick leave?
Not required by state law.
Where can I find official South Carolina minimum wage information?
You can find official information from the South Carolina Department of Labor, linked on this page.