Promissory Note in South Carolina — Free PDF & Word (2026 Updated)
Written promise to pay a debt
Document Preview
PROMISSORY NOTE
State of South Carolina
Principal Amount: $[AMOUNT]
Date: [DATE]
FOR VALUE RECEIVED, the undersigned ("Borrower") promises to pay to [LENDER NAME] ("Lender"), or order, the principal sum of $[AMOUNT], together with interest.
BORROWER:
Name: [BORROWER NAME]
Address: [ADDRESS]
City, State, ZIP: [CITY], SC [ZIP]
LENDER:
Name: [LENDER NAME]
Address: [ADDRESS]
City, State, ZIP: [CITY], SC [ZIP]
TERMS:
1. Interest Rate: [RATE]% per annum
2. Payment Schedule: [SCHEDULE]
3. Payment Amount: $[AMOUNT] per [PERIOD]
4. Due Date: [DATE]
LATE PAYMENT: A late fee of $[AMOUNT] will be charged for payments more than [DAYS] days overdue.
DEFAULT: If Borrower defaults, Lender may declare the entire unpaid balance immediately due and payable.
PREPAYMENT: Borrower may prepay without penalty.
GOVERNING LAW: This note is governed by South Carolina law (SC Statutes).
BORROWER SIGNATURE: _____________________ DATE: _____
FAQ: Promissory Note in South Carolina
Is a Promissory Note required in South Carolina?
Yes, in South Carolina, a Promissory Note is required for most transactions of this type. Under South Carolina State Code, the document must include all parties' information, be signed, and witnessed by 2 individuals. Failure to use a proper Promissory Note may result in legal complications.
Does a Promissory Note need to be notarized in South Carolina?
Notarization requirements in South Carolina (SC) vary by transaction type. Notary fees in the state typically range from $5. While not always mandatory, notarization adds an extra layer of legal protection and is recommended for high-value transactions.
What are the tax implications of a Promissory Note in South Carolina?
South Carolina has a base sales tax rate of 6%. Depending on the type of transaction documented in your Promissory Note, additional local taxes may apply. Consult with a South Carolina tax professional for specific guidance on your situation.
Is a promissory note legally binding?
Yes, a properly executed promissory note is a legally binding contract. It must include the principal amount, interest rate (if any), payment terms, maturity date, and signatures of the borrower. Some states require notarization for certain amounts.
What happens if a borrower defaults on a promissory note?
If a borrower defaults, the lender can demand immediate payment of the full balance, charge late fees as specified in the note, report to credit bureaus, and take legal action to collect the debt. The note should specify the remedies available upon default.
Can I charge any interest rate on a promissory note?
No, interest rates are subject to state usury laws, which set maximum allowable rates. Charging interest above the legal limit can result in penalties and may make the entire note unenforceable. Check your state's usury limits.
Where to File Your Promissory Note in South Carolina
Visit your local County Clerk office to file or notarize your Promissory Note.
South Carolina County Clerk
South Carolina Capital
Main Government Building, South Carolina
District County Clerk
South Carolina Metro Area
County Courthouse, SC
Jennifer Rodriguez, J.D.
Estate Planning Attorney
Licensed in 5 states, 12+ years experience
Focuses on wills, trusts, and power of attorney documents
This Promissory Note template for South Carolina has been reviewed for accuracy and legal compliance.
Last reviewed: March 2026
South Carolina Promissory Note Legal Guide
For residents of South Carolina, ensuring this form is compliant with state-specific requirements is a top priority for legal validity.
South Carolina law (South Carolina State Code) governs this Promissory Note. Key financial considerations include a 6% sales tax rate and notary fees of $5. The document requires 2 witnesses and remains valid indefinite.
This professionally drafted form provides peace of mind knowing you're compliant with all South Carolina legal requirements.
Expert Recommendations
Legal professionals in South Carolina recommend:
- Always use a state-specific template compliant with SC statutes
- Have documents reviewed before signing high-value agreements
- File copies with the appropriate South Carolina government office when required
- Update your documents annually to reflect any changes in SC law
How South Carolina Courts View This Document
South Carolina courts apply SC statutory standards when evaluating a Promissory Note. Judges look for: clear language, proper identification of parties, lawful purpose, and correct execution formalities. Meeting these standards ensures your document will be upheld if ever challenged.
Your South Carolina Filing Guide
After downloading, take your time filling in each section. SC statutes require that all information be accurate and current. Once signed by all parties, determine whether South Carolina requires you to file the document with a government office, record it with the county, or simply retain it for your records.
Meeting South Carolina's Legal Threshold
For your Promissory Note to hold up in a South Carolina court, it must satisfy the state's statutory requirements. SC law emphasizes clear language, mutual consent, and proper execution. We've built these requirements directly into our template.
South Carolina courts apply SC statutory standards when evaluating a Promissory Note. Judges look for: clear language, proper identification of parties, lawful purpose, and correct execution formalities. Meeting these standards ensures your document will be upheld if ever challenged.
Your South Carolina Filing Guide
After downloading, take your time filling in each section. SC statutes require that all information be accurate and current. Once signed by all parties, determine whether South Carolina requires you to file the document with a government office, record it with the county, or simply retain it for your records.
Meeting South Carolina's Legal Threshold
For your Promissory Note to hold up in a South Carolina court, it must satisfy the state's statutory requirements. SC law emphasizes clear language, mutual consent, and proper execution. We've built these requirements directly into our template.
For your Promissory Note to hold up in a South Carolina court, it must satisfy the state's statutory requirements. SC law emphasizes clear language, mutual consent, and proper execution. We've built these requirements directly into our template.
Promissory Note Costs in South Carolina
Estimated fees and processing times
| Fee Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Notary Fee | $5-$15 (if required) | South Carolina standard rate: $5 |
| Filing Fee | Varies by state | State registration (if applicable) |
| Processing Time | 1-3 business days | Typical turnaround in South Carolina |
| Sales Tax | 6% | South Carolina base rate (local taxes may apply) |
| Witness Requirement | 2 witnesses | South Carolina requires multiple witnesses |
| Our Template | FREE | Download instantly, no cost |
South Carolina Promissory Note Requirements
Review the following requirements to ensure your Promissory Note is legally valid in South Carolina.
South Carolina Notarization
South Carolina requires 2 witnesses and notarization may be mandatory. Fees typically range from $5.
Before You Sign
Review all information carefully. In South Carolina, a 6% sales tax may apply.
Legal Protection
Keep copies of all signed documents. South Carolina law requires all parties to receive copies of executed documents.
South Carolina Filing Deadlines
Check South Carolina deadlines for filing or recording this document with the appropriate county clerk's office.
Other Forms in South Carolina
Promissory Note in Neighboring States
Document Information
- Document
- Promissory Note
- State
- South Carolina (SC)
- Category
- Financial
- Format
- PDF / Word / Print
- Cost
- 100% Free
- Sales Tax
- 6%
- Notary Fee
- $5
South Carolina Legal Requirements
Governing Statute:
State Commercial Code
- ✓Must be in writing for amounts over $500
- ✓Clear payment terms required
- ✓Interest rate must comply with usury laws
- ✓Signature of borrower required
📊 Promissory Note vs. Loan Agreement in South Carolina
Legal Disclaimer
This template is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws in South Carolina may change. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.