The South Carolina Department of Agriculture is rolling out a handy new card for farmers to use for agricultural sales tax exemptions.
South Carolina state law offers several sales tax exemptions for items used in agricultural production. For many years, farmers have had to fill out a paper form, the ST-8F, to receive these exemptions.
But after July 1, 2022, farmers must instead show their SCATE (South Carolina Agricultural Tax Exemption) card to retailers to demonstrate they are eligible for these exemptions.
The program is similar to Georgia’s GATE card, but unlike in Georgia, South Carolina users do not need to meet a minimum farm income threshold to be eligible.
It’s important to understand that state law is not changing. Farmers will still be able to receive the same exemptions as before.
A SCATE card costs $24 and is good for three years.
You can apply for your SCATE card using the online portal. You must apply and pay online; there is no paper application. You can begin using your SCATE card as soon as you receive it.
You’ll need a valid email address to apply, as well as a credit/debit card or bank account number to pay for the card.
Questions about SCATE? Contact the South Carolina Department of Agriculture by email or 803-734-2210. For questions specifically about tax exemptions, you can email the South Carolina Department of Revenue. Click here for FAQs.