South Carolina residents have a number of federal and state rights when it comes to getting help with their credit. Whether you can't pay your bills on time, have a concern about the accuracy of your credit report or are a victim of identity theft, you can find help from several agencies including the Federal Trade Commission.
Credit Report Security
If you're concerned about the security of your credit report and live in South Carolina, you can place a "security freeze" on your credit report, according to the credit bureau Experian. A security freeze bars any creditor from viewing your reports without verifying your identity; it also forbids them from opening accounts in your name without verifying that you made the request. You can have the freeze temporarily lifted if you want to more easily go through financial transactions such as shopping for a mortgage. South Carolina residents can request the freeze from any or all of the major credit bureaus Equifax, Experian or TransUnion by telephone, online or via postal mail.
Debt Collection Rights
If you've been harassed by a debt collector while living in South Carolina, you should assert your rights under state code Title 37. For example, non-government creditors cannot garnish your wages if you live in South Carolina and cannot threaten to do so. Also, if your wages are garnished from a government agency such as the Internal Revenue Service you cannot legally lose your job as a result.
The Bankruptcy Option
If you've tried credit counseling and other means to repay your debts and just can't get ahead, you may need to apply for debt relief through the United States Bankruptcy Court District of South Carolina. You don't need an attorney to request elimination of consumer debts under Chapter 7 or petition for a partial debt repayment plan under Chapter 13. But the bankruptcy process in South Carolina won't help some types of debts such as child support, alimony, court fines, tax bills less than three years old and any bills incurred right before filing bankruptcy, notes the book "How to File for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy."
Credit Report Help
Since 2005, South Carolina residents have had the legal right to request one free copy of their credit reports each year, notes the Federal Trade Commission. If you find errors on your reports, then you must request an investigation into the inaccuracy; if the inaccurate information remains you have the right to sue the company responsible for the credit reporting.
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