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Reseller Permit in South Carolina: Cost, Steps & How to File

Every South Carolina business owner eventually needs to answer the reseller permit question: what does it cost, how long does it take, and where do I actually file? This page answers all three with the current South Carolina numbers, plus the government link to start the application.

Typical cost

$0–$100

Timeline

Same-day–14 days

Renewal

Tied to your sales tax registration — renews when that does

Who needs it

wholesalers and retailers buying inventory tax-free for resale

Steps to get a reseller permit in South Carolina

Step 1: Register for sales tax first if you haven't already — the reseller permit derives from it
Step 2: Download the state's resale certificate form (each state has its own)
Step 3: Fill out the certificate with your sales tax permit number, business name, and description of what you'll resell
Step 4: Give a signed copy to each wholesaler / supplier you buy from
Step 5: Keep copies of resale certificates you accept from customers (if you sell wholesale yourself) for audit purposes
Step 6: Only use the certificate for items you'll actually resell — using it on personal purchases is tax fraud

Required documents

Sales tax permit number
State-specific resale certificate form

Where to file in South Carolina

Business filings: https://businessfilings.sc.gov
Secretary of State: https://sos.sc.gov
Tax authority: https://dor.sc.gov
Labor/workforce: https://dew.sc.gov

Heads up: A common South Carolina mistake: assuming this reseller permit covers your city and county requirements too. It usually doesn't. Check your city's business division separately — most cities in South Carolina require their own general business license on top of state filings.

Related permits in South Carolina

Sales Tax Registration in South Carolina Business License in South Carolina

Frequently asked questions

How much does a reseller permit cost in South Carolina?

Typical cost ranges from $0–$100. The exact fee depends on your specific business type, city, and any expedited processing you choose.

How long does it take to get a reseller permit in South Carolina?

Most South Carolina applications complete in Same-day–14 days. Same-day or next-day processing is often available for an added fee at the state level.

Do I need a reseller permit if I'm just starting a home business in South Carolina?

In most cases, yes — even home-based businesses in South Carolina are subject to the same state filing rules. Local rules (city and county) may add a home occupation permit on top.

This page reflects general South Carolina filing rules as of 2026. Fees and processing times change; verify the current amounts with the linked state agency before filing.