South Carolina Unemployment Insurance

The South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce (DEW) administers unemployment insurance benefits to the unemployed who meet all state and federal eligibility requirements. Unemployment insurance in South Carolina is meant to temporarily supplement income for workers separated from employment. Employers pay the full cost of South Carolina unemployment insurance tax and no funds are  deducted from workers wages. Unemployment insurance benefit payments are based on wages earned and taxes paid into the trust by former employers, not on the need for assistance like a welfare-based program. Unemployment insurance benefits are considered taxable income and must be claimed on your state and federal income tax returns.

You should file for unemployment immediately upon being separated from employment or having your hours reduced to ensure your ability to collect the maximum amount of unemployment insurance benefits available to you.