Debt collection is legal—but harassment isn’t. Every week in my South Carolina practice, I speak with clients who’ve been bullied, misled, or threatened by debt collectors. Many don’t realize that state and federal laws give them real protection.
Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) and South Carolina law, collectors cannot:
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Call you repeatedly or at odd hours
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Use threats or abusive language
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Lie about what they can do (like threaten arrest)
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Discuss your debt with others (like employers or family)
They also must stop contacting you if you request it in writing, and they must provide written validation of the debt if asked.
South Carolina’s Extra Protections
Our state law adds more consumer safeguards. For example, most debts can’t be collected in court after three years of inactivity—and if a debt is "time-barred," they must say so.
What You Can Do
If you're facing debt harassment:
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Document everything.
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Ask for validation.
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Send a cease and desist letter.
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Talk to a consumer attorney.
You may be entitled to compensation if your rights are violated.
You might owe a debt—but that doesn’t give anyone the right to mistreat you. If you're facing illegal collection tactics in South Carolina, I’m here to help.