- Payday loans are legal in South Carolina under the S.C. Code Title 34, Chapter 39 (Deferred Presentment Services Act).
- The typical APR on a $400 payday loan in South Carolina was 391% (CRL, June 2023, from state regulator data).
- Borrowing $300 at the maximum fee costs $45 (15% fee).
Payday loan rules in South Carolina
| Rule | South Carolina |
|---|---|
| Maximum loan | $550 |
| Maximum fee | 15% of the amount advanced |
| Loan term | Up to 31 days |
| Loans at once | One, enforced by a statewide database |
| Rollovers | Not allowed |
Rules checked 2026-10-04. Laws change, so confirm current limits with the South Carolina State Board of Financial Institutions, Consumer Finance Division.
What a payday loan costs in South Carolina
The Center for Responsible Lending found the typical APR on a $400 single-payment payday loan in South Carolina was 391%, based on data from the state regulator (June 2023). Under the state’s fee limits, borrowing $300 costs $45 (15% fee). Use our cost calculator to turn any offer into an APR.
Most payday loans are due in one payment on your next payday. If repaying leaves you short again, ask about an extended payment plan and avoid renewals.
Need $100–$1,000 before payday?
- One free request, many lenders
- Bad credit and benefit income considered by many lenders
- See the APR and total cost before you sign
PaydayEase is not a lender. Requests go to lenders in our network; approval, rates and terms are set by the lender. Rates & fees
How to check a lender in South Carolina
- Make sure the lender is licensed by the South Carolina State Board of Financial Institutions, Consumer Finance Division. Many lenders can also be looked up on NMLS Consumer Access.
- Get the APR and finance charge in writing before you sign. Federal law requires them.
- Be careful with online lenders that say South Carolina law does not apply to them because they are tribal or offshore.
- File complaints with the state regulator and the CFPB.
Cheaper options in South Carolina
- Credit union payday alternative loans (PALs): $200–$2,000 at no more than 28% APR. Search for a federal credit union in South Carolina that offers them. See how PALs work.
- Your bank’s small-dollar loan, if it offers one. See bank small-dollar loans.
- Cash advance apps for $20–$500 based on your direct deposits. See apps compared.
- 211: call or text 211 for local help with rent, utilities and food.
South Carolina cities
Local guides for 223 South Carolina cities and towns, with credit unions, nearby towns and the rules that apply.
- Payday loans in Charleston
- Payday loans in Columbia
- Payday loans in North Charleston
- Payday loans in Mount Pleasant
- Payday loans in Rock Hill
- Payday loans in Greenville
- Payday loans in Summerville
- Payday loans in Goose Creek
- Payday loans in Greer
- Payday loans in Sumter
- Payday loans in Florence
- Payday loans in Myrtle Beach
- Payday loans in Spartanburg
- Payday loans in Hilton Head Island
- Payday loans in Fort Mill
All 223 South Carolina cities, A to Z
Need cash before payday?Send one free request to our lender network. We are not a lender; offers and rates come from lenders.
Request a loanFrequently asked questions
Are payday loans legal in South Carolina?
Yes. Payday lending is legal in South Carolina under the S.C. Code Title 34, Chapter 39 (Deferred Presentment Services Act) and is regulated by the South Carolina State Board of Financial Institutions, Consumer Finance Division.
What is the typical payday loan APR in South Carolina?
The Center for Responsible Lending reported a typical APR of 391% on a $400 payday loan in South Carolina, using state regulator data (June 2023).
Where can I complain about a payday lender in South Carolina?
Contact the South Carolina State Board of Financial Institutions, Consumer Finance Division and file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.