Loan Options in South Carolina

South Carolina allows both payday loans and installment loans under separate sets of rules enforced by the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs. Payday lending follows the Deferred Presentment Services Act (S.C. Code § 34-39-110 et seq.), which caps loan amounts, terms, and fees. Installment loans fall under the Consumer Protection Code and supervised lender licensing requirements, which set different limits.

For verified numbers on fees, maximum loan amounts, and repayment periods, visit the South Carolina rates and fees page. You can also review each product separately on the payday loans and installment loans pages. If you'd rather explore lower-cost options first, start with alternatives available in South Carolina.

• You can only have one payday loan open at a time. Every lender has to check a statewide database before approving you, which stops you from stacking loans across multiple companies.
• The lender must give you a written breakdown of all fees and the total cost before you sign. If they won't put it in writing, walk away.
• Only licensed lenders can legally operate in South Carolina. You can verify a lender's license on the SCDCA website before sharing any personal information.
• If a lender breaks the rules or you suspect fraud, the SCDCA will investigate. You can file a complaint online whether the lender is licensed or not.

Before you share personal or financial details with any lender, review the LendUp scams and safety guide for warning signs.