South Carolina Workers' Compensation: Key Rules and Benefits

What makes South Carolina workers' compensation unique

South Carolina requires most private employers to carry workers' compensation insurance, but the state sets a lower wage threshold ($13,000 annual payroll in 2024) than many neighboring states, meaning some small businesses are exempt. The state also uses a "no-fault" system: benefits are paid regardless of who caused the injury, and the employee generally cannot sue the employer for the same harm.

Eligibility and covered injuries

Employees must be hired for wages and perform work for a South Carolina employer. Injuries covered include sudden accidents, occupational diseases, and repetitive‑motion injuries that develop over time. Independent contractors are covered only if the employer classifies them as employees for tax purposes.

Benefits provided

Benefits fall into three categories:

• Medical care – all reasonable treatment related to the work injury.
• Temporary total disability (TTD) – 66.67% of the employee's average weekly wage, capped at $1,280 per week (2024).
• Permanent disability – a schedule of rates based on the body part and loss of function.

Wage‑loss benefits stop when the employee returns to work or reaches maximum medical improvement.

Claim process

1. Report the injury to the employer within 30 days.2. Employer files a First Report of Injury with the South Carolina Workers' Compensation Commission (SCWCC).3. Employee seeks medical treatment from an authorized provider.4. If benefits are denied, the employee may request a hearing before the SCWCC.

Employer responsibilities

Employers must maintain statutory insurance, display the required notice in the workplace, and promptly file injury reports. Failure to insure can result in fines, criminal penalties, and personal liability for the owner.

Comparative overview