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Credit Repair and Financial Recovery for Single Mothers in South Carolina

Credit Repair & Financial Recovery for Single Mothers in South Carolina

Last updated: September 2025

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Why this guide and how to use it

  • Goal: Practical, no‑fluff steps to stop damage, clean errors, deal with debt the right way in South Carolina, and tap real programs that put money back in your budget.
  • How to scan fast: Each section starts with the most important action, shows eligibility and how to apply, adds timelines, and ends with What to do if this doesn’t work.

Emergency Financial Help in South Carolina

Start with cash‑flow lifelines you can activate in 24–72 hours.


LIHEAP energy crisis help

  • Action first: Call your county Community Action Agency and ask for “LIHEAP crisis” for shutoff notices or empty fuel. Program dates typically run Heating 10/01–04/30, Cooling 05/01–09/30, crisis year‑round, with typical benefits of 200–200–850 for heating, 200–200–775 for cooling, and up to $1,500 crisis (varies by county, funding, and need). Public inquiry line: 803‑734‑0662. Apply in person; bring ID, SSNs, proof of income for the last 30 days, and utility bills. (liheapch.acf.gov)
  • Utility company aid:
    • Dominion Energy SC – EnergyShare: Apply through your Community Action Agency.
    • Santee Cooper – Community Cares: One‑time help per 24 months when funds are available; call 800‑804‑7424.
    • Duke Energy – Share the Warmth: Apply through local partner agencies in Duke Energy’s service area. (dominionenergy.com, santeecooper.com, news.duke-energy.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the utility for a payment plan in writing and request to be screened again for LIHEAP when new funds arrive. Consider a rapid budget triage with a HUD/NFCC‑certified nonprofit like Origin SC (843‑628‑3000). (originsc.org)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Program Who it helps Key numbers How to apply
SNAP (food stamps) Low‑income families Max monthly benefit for 4: $975; income tests at 130% FPL unless elderly/disabled household meets net test Apply online or at county DSS; see SC DSS SNAP and USDA FY2025 COLA (fns.usda.gov, dss.sc.gov)
TANF/Family Independence (cash) Very low‑income families with children Max monthly grant: 229∗∗(1child),∗∗229** (1 child), **308 (2), $388 (3) Apply via DSS Benefits Portal or county DSS; info line 800‑616‑1309 (dss.sc.gov)
Child Care Scholarship (SC DSS) Working/student parents Income up to 85% SMI (family of 4 up to $83,446/yr) Apply via DSS Benefits Portal or call 800‑476‑0199 (scchildcare.org)
Unemployment Insurance (DEW) Job loss through no fault Max weekly benefit currently $350, up to 20 weeks (varies by law) File at DEW MyBenefits; DEW states max 350∗∗;somepagesshowolder∗∗350**; some pages show older **326 (dew.sc.gov, dew.sc.gov)
LIHEAP Help with utilities Typical benefits 200–200–850 regular; up to $1,500 crisis Find your agency via OEO LIHEAP (liheapch.acf.gov)
WIC Pregnant/postpartum and kids <5 Income up to 185% FPL; statewide appointment line 855‑472‑3432 Start at SC DPH WIC apply (dph.sc.gov)
SC Earned Income Tax Credit Working families State EITC is 125% of federal EITC; nonrefundable under current law See SCDOR family credits and code §12‑6‑3632 (dor.sc.gov, scstatehouse.gov)

South Carolina Credit Protections You Can Use

Table: Know your rights at a glance

Topic South Carolina rule Why it matters
Wage garnishment for consumer debts Generally prohibited for consumer debts (credit cards, medical, retail) under SC Consumer Protection Code; exceptions for taxes, child support/alimony, and some federal debts A collector can sue and get a judgment, but usually can’t take wages for consumer debts if you live in South Carolina. (consumer.sc.gov)
Statute of limitations on most consumer debts 3 years for contracts/open accounts (credit cards, medical), unless tolled or revived If it’s older than 3 years since default/last activity, lawsuit risk drops — but don’t revive it by payment or written promise. See §15‑3‑530. (scstatehouse.gov)
Revival of old debts Any payment or written acknowledgment can restart the clock Don’t pay or sign anything on a very old debt before legal advice. See §15‑3‑120 and §15‑3‑130. (scstatehouse.gov, law.justia.com)
Judgment lifespan 10 years to execute on a judgment (“active energy”) If a creditor wins, they can pursue property/bank levy for up to 10 years. See §15‑39‑20 and §15‑39‑30. (law.justia.com)

Reality check: South Carolina blocks most consumer wage garnishments, but a judgment can still lead to bank levies or liens. Don’t ignore court papers; answer lawsuits on time or get legal help fast. (uwlowcountry.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a collector threatens wage garnishment on a credit card or medical bill, cite S.C. Code §37‑5‑104 and report them to SCDCA at 800‑922‑1594. For taxes, child support, or federal student loans, different rules apply — get legal counsel. (consumer.sc.gov)

Step 1 — Pull and read your credit reports (free every week)

  • Action first: Get free weekly reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion at AnnualCreditReport.com. This is permanently free. Set a reminder to check monthly for new collections or errors. (consumer.ftc.gov)
  • What to look for:
    • Wrong balances/dates, accounts you don’t recognize, duplicate collections.
    • Medical debt marked as open after insurance paid.
    • Old negatives older than 7 years (most negatives) or 10 years (chapter 7 bankruptcy).
  • Timeline: Pull all three reports now; save PDFs. Re‑check after disputes within 35–45 days. (consumerfinance.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If the website won’t verify you online, use the mail‑in form at AnnualCreditReport or call each bureau directly (keep call notes). (consumer.ftc.gov)

Step 2 — Dispute clear errors the right way

  • Action first: Dispute in writing with the credit bureau(s) and the furnisher (the bank/collector). Use certified mail and include copies of proof. See CFPB’s dispute steps and template letters. (consumerfinance.gov, consumer.ftc.gov)
  • Timeline: Bureaus generally must investigate within 30 days (up to 45 if you disputed using your free annual report), then notify you of results within 5 business days. If not corrected, add a 100‑word statement and escalate to CFPB. (consumerfinance.gov)
  • Tip: If a company demands extra documents as a precondition to even investigate, that can be illegal. The CFPB says bureaus and furnishers must conduct a reasonable investigation with the information you provided unless the dispute is clearly frivolous. (consumerfinance.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: File a complaint with CFPB and SCDCA; ask South Carolina Legal Services (888‑346‑5592) for help if a wrong tradeline is costing you housing or work. (lawhelp.org)

Step 3 — Stop the bleeding: validate debts and avoid re‑aging

  • Action first: If you get a new collection letter, send a debt validation request within 30 days of the first notice. Keep everything in writing. If it’s past the 3‑year statute of limitations, do not pay or admit the debt without legal advice. (scstatehouse.gov)
  • South Carolina perks: Most consumer debts can’t garnish wages, but judgments can lead to liens or bank levies. If sued, file an answer — don’t default. Ask for proof of ownership and complete account history. (consumer.sc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a collector sues you on a time‑barred debt or threatens illegal garnishment, call SCDCA (800‑922‑1594) and seek legal help (SC Bar referral 800‑868‑2284 / SCLS 888‑346‑5592). (consumer.sc.gov, lrs.scbar.org, lawhelp.org)

Step 4 — Triage your budget with nonprofit counselors (no upfront fees)

  • Action first: Book a free session with a HUD/NFCC‑certified nonprofit. In South Carolina: Origin SC (843‑628‑3000) and Increasing H.O.P.E. (843‑225‑4343) offer budgeting, credit counseling, debt‑management plans, and housing help. South Carolina licenses credit counseling/repair providers — avoid unlicensed outfits and never pay upfront fees. (originsc.org, increasinghope.org, consumer.sc.gov)
  • Warning: Credit repair companies cannot legally charge upfront or promise to remove accurate negatives. Use FTC/CFPB resources and sample letters to do it yourself free. (consumerfinance.gov, ftc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re overwhelmed, a Chapter 7 or 13 may be a clean reset. Call the U.S. Bankruptcy Court help line (803‑765‑5436) for procedural info and use the SC Bar referral to find a consumer bankruptcy attorney. (scb.uscourts.gov, lrs.scbar.org)

Build‑Back Plan for the Next 12 Months

  • Month 0–1: Pull reports, dispute errors, set up payment plans on priority bills (housing, utilities, car that gets you to work).
  • Month 1–3: Add one positive trade line: a secured card from your credit union or a credit‑builder loan; keep utilization under 10% and auto‑pay the minimum.
  • Month 3–6: Pay down any small collections that are valid only after getting a “pay for delete” in writing — many bureaus allow deletion when the collector agrees and reports accurately. If not, pay only what fits the budget; focus on preventing new late payments.
  • Month 6–12: Recheck FICO/Vantage trends and rotate small purchases through your secured card, paid in full monthly.

South Carolina Benefits That Improve Cash Flow

SNAP (Food Stamps)

  • Action first: Apply online or at your county DSS office. Standard processing is up to 30 days; expedited service can be 7 days if you qualify (very low income/assets). Max benefits (FY 2025) for the 48 states are below; South Carolina uses federal amounts. (fns.usda.gov)

Table: SNAP maximum monthly allotments (Oct 2024–Sep 2025)

Household size Max benefit
1 $292
2 $536
3 $768
4 $975
5 $1,158
6 $1,390
7 $1,536
8 $1,756
Each add’l $220

Source: USDA FY2025 COLA. (fns.usda.gov, everycrsreport.com)

Table: South Carolina SNAP monthly income limits (130% FPL)

HH size Gross monthly Net monthly
1 $1,632 $1,255
2 $2,215 $1,704
3 $2,798 $2,152
4 $3,380 $2,600
5 $3,963 $3,049
6 $4,546 $3,497
7 $5,129 $3,945
8 $5,712 $3,894
Each add’l $583 $449

Source: South Carolina DSS. Apply at the DSS Benefits Portal. (dss.sc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If denied for income, check if deductions (child support paid, shelter/utility costs) were counted correctly and appeal through DSS. Ask a Legal Services advocate to review. (lawhelp.org)

TANF/Family Independence (cash aid)

  • Action first: If there’s no income or very low income with children, apply for Family Independence. Max monthly grant is 229∗∗(onechild),∗∗229** (one child), **308 (two), $388 (three). You must cooperate with child support and participate in work activities unless exempt. Info line 800‑616‑1309. (dss.sc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you are over income for TANF, try SNAP and the Child Care Scholarship, and ask a nonprofit counselor to look at a debt‑management plan to free cash flow. (scchildcare.org)

Child Care Scholarships (SC Working Families)

  • Action first: If you work 15+ hours/week or attend school/training, you may qualify up to 85% of State Median Income (family of 4 up to $83,446/year). Apply in the DSS portal or call 800‑476‑0199 for help. (scchildcare.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the DSS Child Care Operations Center to review if you qualify under another category (homelessness, foster, disability). Keep documentation of job search or training hours. (scchildcare.org)

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)

  • Action first: Call 855‑472‑3432 or start the online pre‑application. WIC uses income up to 185% of poverty and requires a quick nutrition screening; many appointments can be done by phone. (dph.sc.gov, fns.usda.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t get through by phone, use the DPH pre‑application portal or your local clinic’s walk‑in hours listed on DPH’s site. (apps.dhec.sc.gov)

Unemployment Insurance

  • Action first: If you lost work through no fault of your own, file immediately; benefits start the week you file. DEW lists the max weekly benefit as 350∗∗(min∗∗350** (min **42), up to 20 weeks depending on state rules. Always check the current figure in the MyBenefits portal. (dew.sc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If denied, appeal by the deadline in your determination letter and keep filing weekly certifications. If one DEW page shows 326∗∗andanother∗∗326** and another **350, rely on the most recent official DEW “How we help individuals” page and your actual determination. (dew.sc.gov, dew.sc.gov)

State and Federal Tax Credits

  • Action first: Claim the federal EITC and South Carolina state EITC, which equals 125% of your federal EITC (nonrefundable as of the 2023–2025 tax years). Some lawmakers proposed partial refunds of any excess in 2025 (H.3492), but that change is not enacted; check each filing season. (scstatehouse.gov)
  • Where to file free: Use IRS Free File or VITA sites; DOR explains family credits and limits. (dor.sc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your state EITC doesn’t reduce your tax to $0, you may still gain from dependent exemptions/child credits; ask a VITA tax preparer to maximize your return. (dor.sc.gov)

Table: Application checklists (print this)

Program Bring these documents
SNAP/TANF Photo ID, SSNs, proof of all income (last 30 days), rent/utility bills, childcare costs, child support orders
Child Care Scholarship IDs, proof of SC residency, pay stubs or school/training proof, child’s birth cert/SSN
LIHEAP Photo ID, SSNs, last 30 days income, current utility bill(s), shutoff notice if crisis
WIC ID, SC address proof, income proof, children/pregnant person present (or as directed by clinic)
Unemployment Employer details and last 18 months of work history, SSN, bank routing for direct deposit

Credit Report Dispute Timeline — What to expect

Day What happens
Day 0 Mail certified disputes to bureau(s) and furnisher(s) with copies of proof
Day 1–5 Bureau forwards dispute to furnisher; furnisher begins review
By Day 30 Investigation usually due; can extend 15 more days if you add info or 45 days if dispute was from your free annual report
By Day 35–45 Bureau mails results and a free updated report
If not fixed Add a statement, re‑dispute with new evidence, complain to CFPB/SCDCA

Source: CFPB dispute rules. (consumerfinance.gov)

Medical, Housing, and Student Loan Pitfalls to Watch

  • Medical debt: Verify insurance processing before paying; ask hospitals for charity care and interest‑free payment plans; dispute coding errors before they hit your report.
  • Mortgage trouble: SC’s Homeowner Rescue program is closed; contact your servicer’s loss‑mitigation department and a HUD‑approved counselor (e.g., Origin SC 843‑628‑3000). SC foreclosure is judicial; lenders can seek a deficiency judgment unless waived. A judgment can remain enforceable for 10 years. (schousing.sc.gov, charlestoncounty.org)
  • Student loans: Income‑driven repayment rules changed in 2025 because of court orders affecting the SAVE plan; the U.S. Department of Education has updates and notices (including interest accrual changes) — check ED’s SAVE update page before making decisions. (ed.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: For mortgage/foreclosure timelines or student loan options, get individualized counseling from a HUD‑approved agency or legal aid. (apps.hud.gov)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Paying a small amount on an old debt “to get them off your back”: This can restart the 3‑year clock in South Carolina. Get advice first. (scstatehouse.gov)
  • Ignoring a lawsuit: Default judgments last up to 10 years for enforcement and can become liens. Answer on time. (law.justia.com)
  • Paying “credit repair” upfront fees: Illegal. Use nonprofit counseling or do‑it‑yourself dispute letters. (consumerfinance.gov)
  • Letting collectors scare you with garnishment threats: For consumer debts, wage garnishment is generally prohibited in SC — report illegal threats. (consumer.sc.gov)
  • Skipping benefits: Many families qualify for SNAP/child care/WIC even while working — apply and verify. (dss.sc.gov, scchildcare.org)

Real‑World Example

  • Example: A Richland County mom with two kids had 1,200∗∗inpast‑duepowerandthreemedicalcollections.Shegot∗∗LIHEAPcrisis∗∗tostopdisconnection,entereda∗∗1,200** in past‑due power and three medical collections. She got **LIHEAP crisis** to stop disconnection, entered a **50/month utility plan, used WIC for groceries, and worked with Origin SC to set up a debt‑management plan that lowered her interest on two cards. Errors on one medical collection were deleted within 45 days after disputes using the CFPB template. Her budget freed about 180/month∗∗,whichsheusedtobuilda∗∗180/month**, which she used to build a **500 emergency fund in three months. (liheapch.acf.gov, consumerfinance.gov, originsc.org)

Local Organizations and Hotlines

  • South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs: 800‑922‑1594 — complaints, scam reporting, debt collection rights. (consumer.sc.gov)
  • South Carolina Legal Services: Intake 888‑346‑5592 (Mon–Thu 9am–6pm); civil legal help for eligible residents. (lawhelp.org)
  • Origin SC (HUD/NFCC): 843‑628‑3000 — credit, housing, budget counseling (statewide). (originsc.org)
  • Increasing H.O.P.E.: 843‑225‑4343 — financial training and housing counseling (North Charleston). (increasinghope.org)
  • Bankruptcy Court (District of SC): 803‑765‑5436 — general court information, locations. (scb.uscourts.gov)
  • SC Bar Lawyer Referral Service: 800‑868‑2284 or 803‑799‑7100 — low‑cost consultation referrals. (lrs.scbar.org)

Tables: Money‑Back Programs and Figures

TANF Family Independence Payment Guide

Household (children counted) Max monthly benefit
1 child $229
2 children $308
3 children $388

Source: SC DSS TANF page. (dss.sc.gov)

EITC at a glance (state vs federal)

Credit Amount Refundable? Notes
Federal EITC Based on income, filing status, and children Yes Use IRS EITC Assistant
South Carolina EITC 125% of your federal EITC No Full‑year residents; check current law annually. (scstatehouse.gov, dor.sc.gov)

Utility Aid Snapshot (SC)

Program Typical max Who to call
LIHEAP Heating $850 Your Community Action Agency
LIHEAP Cooling $775 Your Community Action Agency
LIHEAP Crisis $1,500 Your Community Action Agency
Dominion Energy – EnergyShare Varies See assistance page
Santee Cooper – Community Cares Once per 24 months 800‑804‑7424

Source: LIHEAP Clearinghouse; utility programs. (liheapch.acf.gov, dominionenergy.com, santeecooper.com)

Diverse Communities

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for privacy protections and name‑change support when dealing with creditors. HUD‑approved counselors (Origin SC) and SCDCA accept complaints about discrimination. For name/gender marker changes, the SC Bar referral line at 800‑868‑2284 can connect you with attorneys who handle vital records updates. (lrs.scbar.org)
  • Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Request reasonable accommodations in writing for benefits interviews or court. WIC, SNAP, and LIHEAP must provide language and disability access; WIC explicitly offers language services and flexible appointments. (dph.sc.gov)
  • Veteran single mothers: Combine SC benefits with VA debt relief options and Servicemembers Civil Relief Act protections; ask Legal Services if you qualify for priority help (many offices have veterans’ initiatives). (scbar.org)
  • Immigrant/refugee single moms: WIC and many child care scholarships can cover eligible non‑citizens; SNAP/TANF have strict rules. Use a legal screening with SCLS (888‑346‑5592) before withdrawing any case or signing debt acknowledgments. (lawhelp.org)
  • Tribal citizens: Check eligibility for federal programs plus any tribal assistance; utility assistance may be available through LIHEAP or local United Way partners. Use the LIHEAP Clearinghouse to find state contacts. (liheapch.acf.gov)
  • Rural single moms with limited internet: Call program phone lines, request mailed forms, and use library or DSS lobby computers to apply. For unemployment or SNAP, telephone support is available; keep a paper log of every call with dates and names. (dew.sc.gov)
  • Single fathers: All programs above are available if you’re the primary caregiver; scholarships and WIC can cover dads with eligible children as well. (dph.sc.gov)
  • Language access: WIC and SCDCA provide free language assistance; ask for an interpreter and note it in your case file. (dph.sc.gov)

Regional resource pointers

  • Find your county DSS office: Use the DSS portal to apply or track cases; call 800‑616‑1309 for mailed forms. (dss.sc.gov)
  • Find your Community Action Agency: Use the OEO map for LIHEAP and other local help. (oeo.sc.gov)
  • United Way 2‑1‑1: Call 211 for local rent/utility/gas card help and food pantries.

What if nothing is working?

  • Call legal aid: South Carolina Legal Services 888‑346‑5592 for debt defense, benefits denials, and identity theft.
  • Bankruptcy as a reset: Chapter 7 can clear unsecured debts; Chapter 13 can stop foreclosure and structure catch‑up plans. Court info line 803‑765‑5436; lawyer referral 800‑868‑2284. (scb.uscourts.gov, lrs.scbar.org)

FAQs (South Carolina‑specific)

  1. Is wage garnishment legal for credit cards in South Carolina: Generally no for consumer debts; exceptions include taxes, child support/alimony, and some federal debts. Report improper threats. (consumer.sc.gov)
  2. How long can a creditor sue me for an old bill: Usually 3 years from default/last activity for consumer debts. Don’t restart the clock by paying or promising in writing. (scstatehouse.gov)
  3. If a collector already got a judgment, how long can they collect: Up to 10 years to execute on a judgment in South Carolina. (law.justia.com)
  4. How fast can I get SNAP in a crisis: Some households qualify for 7‑day expedited service; otherwise, standard processing is up to 30 days. Apply and submit proofs quickly. (fns.usda.gov)
  5. How much cash help does TANF pay in SC: Max grants are 229∗∗(onechild),∗∗229** (one child), **308 (two), $388 (three). Participation in work activities and child support cooperation are required unless exempt. (dss.sc.gov)
  6. Is the SC Earned Income Tax Credit refundable: It’s 125% of the federal EITC and currently nonrefundable. A 2025 bill proposed partial refunds; not enacted as of September 2025. (scstatehouse.gov)
  7. How big are LIHEAP benefits: Typical ranges are 200–200–850 (heating), 200–200–775 (cooling), up to $1,500 in crisis, but amounts and timelines vary by county and funding. (liheapch.acf.gov)
  8. Can I really check credit reports weekly for free: Yes — the three bureaus made weekly reports permanently free via AnnualCreditReport.com. (consumer.ftc.gov)
  9. How long do bureaus have to fix errors after I dispute: Investigations are generally due within 30 days (up to 45 in some cases), with results sent within 5 business days after completion. (consumerfinance.gov)
  10. Who do I call to complain about a shady credit repair outfit: File with SCDCA (800‑922‑1594), and with the FTC/CFPB. SC also licenses credit counseling/repair providers. (consumer.sc.gov)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
Methodology: We use only official state/federal sources and established nonprofits; we verify links, archive sources, and update guides regularly. See our full Editorial Standards.
Scope: South Carolina Department of Social Services, SC Department of Consumer Affairs, USDA FNS, HHS/LIHEAP Clearinghouse, SC Department of Employment and Workforce, SC Department of Revenue, and the U.S. Bankruptcy Court were consulted for this edition. Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.

Disclaimer

Important: This guide is informational, not legal or tax advice. Programs change fast and local rules vary by county. Always verify amounts, eligibility, and deadlines with the agency or a qualified advisor before acting. We do our best to keep this page accurate and secure, but you should use up‑to‑date antivirus and avoid public Wi‑Fi when submitting applications. If you find an error, email info@asinglemother.org and we will review within 48 hours.

Sources

What to do next: Pick one urgent item above and act today — submit one application, send one dispute letter, or book one counseling call. Small steps compound.

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