Retail License Guide
South Carolina
Wyoming
North Carolina
South Carolina Retail License Guide
In South Carolina, most businesses that sell tangible goods or certain services must obtain a Retail License from the South Carolina Department of Revenue (SCDOR). This license allows you to legally make retail sales and collect sales & use tax.
📌 Quick Facts
- Agency: South Carolina Department of Revenue (SCDOR)
- Fee: $50 per retail location (one-time)
- Processing Time: 3–5 business days (online) / longer by mail
- Renewal: Retail licenses in SC do not expire — valid until business closes
- Form: SCDOR Form SCDOR-111 (via MyDORWAY portal)
🛍️ Who Needs a Retail License?
You must have a retail license if you:
- Sell tangible goods to the public (in-store or online) in South Carolina
- Provide taxable services (e.g., accommodations, some repair services)
- Operate multiple locations — each location requires its own $50 license
Exemptions may apply for some nonprofit fundraising events and certain occasional sales — but most businesses need a license before making their first sale.
📝 How to Apply
1. Prepare Your Information
- Business legal name & DBA (if any)
- EIN (IRS tax ID)
- Business address & mailing address
- Owner/Officer/Member details (SSN/ITIN, DOB, address)
- NAICS business activity code
- Bank account info (for e-payments & refunds)
2. File Online (Recommended)
Apply through MyDORWAY, SCDOR’s online tax portal.
🕑 Typical processing time: 3–5 business days.
3. Pay the $50 Fee
A $50 nonrefundable fee is required per retail location. Pay online via credit card or ACH.
4. Receive Your Retail License
Your retail license will be issued electronically (downloadable) and mailed. You must post it at your business location where it is visible to customers.
🚀 After You Get Your Retail License
- Register for Sales Tax — SCDOR will automatically set up your sales tax account when you apply for the license.
- File Sales Tax Returns — typically monthly or quarterly, depending on revenue. File through MyDORWAY.
- Keep Records — retain invoices, receipts, and exemption certificates for at least 3 years.
- Post License — visibly display at each business location.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Operating without a retail license — penalties may apply if you sell before obtaining one.
- Forgetting that each location requires a separate license.
- Not filing sales tax returns — even if you had no sales, you must file “zero returns.”
- Using the wrong business structure info (EIN mismatch with Articles or DBA).
❓ FAQs
How long does it take to get a retail license in South Carolina?
Online applications are typically processed in 3–5 business days. Mail may take longer.
Do I need a retail license for online sales?
Yes, if you sell taxable goods or services to South Carolina customers, you need a retail license even if your business has no physical store.
Does the license expire?
No. South Carolina retail licenses are permanent until the business closes. Notify SCDOR when you close.
What if I sell at temporary events or craft fairs?
You still need a retail license if you are regularly selling in South Carolina. Occasional exemptions may apply for nonprofits.
🛠️ Need Help?
Ameen Systems can walk you through the application, register your sales tax account, and set reminders for filing deadlines.
We’ll handle it for you
Choose your service tier and complete the form below.
💼 Don’t Stress Over Retail License Applications — We’ll Handle It For You
Getting your retail license is required before making your first sale — but every state’s rules are a little different. The process can feel overwhelming: different forms, filing portals, fees, and compliance deadlines. Mistakes can delay your approval or even cause penalties.
That’s where Ameen Systems comes in. We specialize in preparing and filing retail license applications for businesses of all sizes, across all states. We’ll make sure it’s done right the first time and set you up for smooth compliance going forward.
✨ Here’s how we can help:
- ✔️ We gather the right info once — no back-and-forth with state offices
- ✔️ We prepare & file your application on your behalf
- ✔️ We provide compliance reminders & filing guidance
- ✔️ We offer full sales tax return support if you want zero headaches
🟢 Basic Filing
$150 – $250 + state fees
Perfect if you just want the application filed correctly and quickly.
- Prepare & file your retail license application
- Handle state filing fees on your behalf
- Deliver your approved license copy
🟡 Filing + Compliance Setup
$300 – $450 + state fees
Best value — includes setup and tools to keep you compliant.
- Everything in Basic Filing
- Set up state online tax portal access
- Calendar reminders for sales tax deadlines
- Step-by-step guide to filing your sales tax returns
🔵 Full Sales Tax Support
$100 – $150 per filing
Completely hands-off — we handle your sales tax filings each period.
- Everything in Filing + Compliance Setup
- We file your sales tax returns (monthly/quarterly)
- Securely manage sales data & reports
- Peace of mind that you stay compliant
🚀 Ready to Get Started?
Choose your service tier and complete the form below. We’ll handle the rest — so you can focus on growing your business.