Consumer
Advance-Fee Loans
Some companies promise you a loan or credit card regardless of your credit history. But they want you to pay a “processing” or other fee first. Those are scams. Learn the telltale signs.
A Guide for People Representing Themselves in Bankruptcy Court
This video provides basic information for people who represent themselves in bankruptcy court.
Auto Fraud – Warranties, Lemons, Yo-Yo Sales, and Repossessions
This video discusses "hot topics" in auto fraud, including warranties, lemons, yo-yo sales, and repossessions. Whether you are buying a car, financing a car, having your car repossessed, or being sued over your vehicle, you have protections under federal and state laws.
Auto Guide for Consumers
This guide published by the SC Department of Consumer Affairs provides a roadmap for purchasing a vehicle, including information on financing, fees, and scams.
Auto Insurance - Arbitration
Automobile insurance arbitration involves the settlement of a dispute over a property damage liability claim by a person or persons chosen to hear both sides and come to a decision. Any person who is a party to a disputed automobile property damage liability claim may submit the claim for settlement through arbitration.
Auto Insurance - A Shopping Guide for Consumers
The information in this guide is intended to help you understand auto insurance and become an informed shopper.
Auto Insurance - Information for Consumers
All forms of insurance provide protection to consumers by covering certain risks and promising to pay for financial losses caused by these risks. This article has more information about the different types of auto insurance, rates, and things you should know before buying.
Auto Issues - Know Your Rights When Car Buying Goes Wrong
This web page contains information on the laws that protect consumers from auto fraud as well as financing "tricks and traps" to avoid.
Automobile Insurance - Complaints
Find information, including a complaint form, on how to receive assistance with issues involving insurance claims and policies.
Auto Repairs - Consumer Advice
The best way to avoid auto repair rip-offs is to be prepared. Knowing how your vehicle works and how to identify common car problems is a good beginning. It's also important to know how to choose a good mechanic, the kinds of questions to ask, and your consumer rights. The information on this web page may help you avoid mechanical mistakes.
Auto Title Loans - Know Your Legal Rights Before You Turn Over the Title to Your Car.
An auto title loan is short-term, usually no longer than 30 days. Your car title is used to secure the loan. This means that if the loan is not repaid, the lender may take the car and sell it to get the loan money back. Most title lenders will only make the loan if you do not owe anything else on the vehicle. Read this brochure to learn more.
Avoiding Retirement Fraud
Retirees are often the target of fraud. However, with some basic understanding of how scam artists work, you can avoid fraud and protect your hard-earned money. Learning how to invest safely can mean a huge difference in your retirement years.
Bankruptcy Basics
This video from South Carolina Legal Services explains the basics of Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
Being Judgment Proof on Consumer Debt: Do You Need to File Bankruptcy?
In South Carolina, certain kinds of property are "exempt" and cannot be taken from you to satisfy a judgment. If there is nothing a creditor can legally take from you, you are "judgment proof." Read this brochure to find out more.
Bill of Rights for Residential Customers of Wastewater Utilities
For wastewater utility customers. Know your rights and responsibilities and whom to contact for assistance when it comes to questions or problems regarding regulated wastewater service.
Bill of Rights for Residential Customers of Water Utilities
Know your rights and responsibilities and whom to contact for assistance when it comes to questions or problems regarding regulated water service.
