South Carolina is not a Tax Lien state instead delinquent properties are sold as redeemable Tax Deeds. Investors bid a premium at the auction. The redemption period is 1 year and the penalty rate varies depending of the date in which redemption occurs. 1st quarter is 3%, 2nd quarter is 6%, 3rd quarter is 9% and 4th is 12%. However the maximum accrued interest and investor can earn is capped at the amount of the opening bid.