Governor Haley Signs Tax Amnesty Program Legislation

South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley recently signed legislation for a tax amnesty program that will provide some tax relief to South Carolina taxpayers who owe delinquent taxes to the South Carolina Department of Revenue. Taxes included in the program are those administered by the Department under Title 12 (for example, income and estate tax), Title 27 (property taxes), and Title 61 (alcohol and alcoholic beverages).

The amnesty program permits the SC Dept. of Revenue to waive penalties and interest in part or in full for delinquent taxpayers who voluntarily rectify tax compliance issues and fully pay tax liabilities by the end of the amnesty period.   Additionally, amnesty may include the taxpayer’s not being subject to criminal investigation or referral to the Office of the Attorney General for prosecution.  However, taxpayers who are the currently the subject of a criminal investigation are excluded from this program.

Another form of relief is also available as the Department may approve tax liabilities to be paid by installments, provided that all taxes are paid within the amnesty timeframe.   Should the full amount not be paid within the given period, the Department reserves the right to administer a 10% collection assistance fee.