Transition metal dithiocarbamate complexes are coordination complexes containing one or more dithiocarbamate ligand, which are typically abbreviated R₂dtc⁻. Many complexes are known. Several homoleptic derivatives have the formula M(R₂dtc)_n where n = 2 and 3.

Dithiocarbamate anions are bidentate ligands that are classified as L-X ligand in the Covalent bond classification method. In the usual electron counting method, they are three-electron ligands. With respect to HSAB theory, they are classified as soft.

Because of the pi-donor properties of the amino substituent, the two sulfur centers show enhanced basicity relative to dithiocarboxylates. This situation is represented by the zwitterionic resonance structure that depicts a positive charge on N and negative charges on both sulfurs. This N to C pi-bonding results in partial double bond character for the C-N bond. Consequently, barriers to rotational about this bond are elevated. Another consequence of their high basicity, dithiocarbamates often stabilize complexes in some uncharacteristically high oxidation state (e.g., Fe(IV), Co(IV), Ni(III), Cu(III)).

Dithiocarbamate salts are easily synthesized. Many primary and secondary amines react with carbon disulfide and sodium hydroxide to form dithiocarbamate salts:

A wide variety of secondary amines give the corresponding dtc ligand. Popular amines include dimethylamine (Me₂NH), diethylamine (Et₂NH), and pyrrolidine ((CH₂)₄NH). Complexes of H₂NCS−2, derived from the parent dithiocarbamic acid have been reported.

Dithiocarbamates are classified as derivatives of dithiocarbamic acid. Their properties as ligands resemble the conjugate bases of many related "1,1-dithioacids":

Commonly, metal dithiocarbamates are prepared by salt metathesis reactions using alkali metal dithiocarbamates:

In some cases, the dithiocarbamate serves as a reductant, followed by its complexation.