South Carolina Debt Collection Laws
Garnishment limits, exemptions, and consumer protections specific to South Carolina
South Carolina (SC) - At a Glance
| State Consumer Protection Law | South Carolina Consumer Protection Code |
| Source | S.C. Code ยง 37-5-101 et seq. |
| Covers Original Creditors? | No - third-party collectors only |
| Max Wage Garnishment | 0% of disposable earnings (federal minimum; may be lower) |
| Bank Levy Exemption | $5,000 in bank |
| Homestead Exemption | $58,255 |
Key Protections in South Carolina
- South Carolina BANS most wage garnishment for consumer debts
- High bank account exemption ($5,000)
- FDCPA applies to third-party collectors
- Consumer Protection Code covers deceptive practices
Wage Garnishment in South Carolina
After a court judgment, creditors in South Carolina can garnish up to 0% of your disposable earnings (earnings after legally required deductions). This is the federal cap - South Carolina follows federal law on this limit.
Exempt from garnishment: Federal benefits (Social Security, SSI, VA benefits) cannot be garnished by private creditors regardless of state law.
Note: Some or all wages may be exempt from garnishment in South Carolina. Consult a local attorney.
File a Complaint in South Carolina
If a debt collector violates the FDCPA or South Carolina Consumer Protection Code:
- File with the South Carolina Attorney General
- File with the CFPB
- Consult a consumer attorney (FDCPA violations = attorney fees paid by collector)
South Carolina Debt Resources
South Carolina Statute of Limitations
Credit card, medical, auto, and personal loan SoL in South Carolina.
View SoL →SoL Date Calculator
Calculate the exact SoL expiration date for your debt.
Check SoL →Federal Collector Rules
What debt collectors can and can't do under federal law.
Read Guide →