Car title loans in Columbia, SC
U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2020–2024 5-year estimates for Columbia, SC.
The median household in Columbia earns $55,529 a year, 20% below the South Carolina median of $69,324. About 24% of residents live below the federal poverty line, and 54.5% of households rent their home. 11.5% of Columbia households have no vehicle — a title loan is only an option if you own a car outright or nearly so.
South Carolina law that applies in Columbia
| Maximum loan | A short-term vehicle secured loan may not exceed the car's fair market retail value under common industry appraisal guides. |
|---|---|
| Rate cap | No fixed cap for supervised loans with a cash advance over $600: the lender may charge any rate it files and posts with the Department of Consumer Affairs. |
| Maximum term | Short-term vehicle secured loans: first period of at least one month, up to six renewals of equal length, not exceeding 240 days in total. |
| Repossession rules | On a short-term vehicle secured loan, unless you committed fraud, the lender's only remedy on default is to repossess and sell the car. |
Full rules with statute citations: Title Loans in South Carolina. Cities in South Carolina cannot set their own payday or title loan rate caps in most cases; zoning rules for storefronts are local.
What you need for a title loan in Columbia
Most Columbia applicants can finish in one sitting if they have these ready:
- A car, truck or motorcycle you own outright or nearly paid off
- The vehicle title in your name (lien-free or close to it)
- A government-issued photo ID that matches the title
- Proof of income (some lenders ask; many accept benefits)
- Photos of the vehicle or a quick inspection
Popular loan amounts in Columbia
What Columbia borrowers use it for
deposits, trucks and first-week expenses
Holiday expensesgifts and travel without maxing a card
Need money nowthe fastest options online
Car repairskeep getting to work while the shop fixes it
Loans for your situation
How to get a title loan in Columbia
- Fill out the short form with your car's year, make and mileage.
- Matched lenders contact you to value the car (some use photos).
- Review the amount, monthly rate, APR and repossession terms before you sign.
- Keep driving while you repay; the lien is removed when you pay in full.
Estimate your cost
Title loan calculator
Many title lenders lend 25%–50% of a vehicle's value, and you keep driving your car. Estimate only; your lender shows exact terms.
Banks and credit unions in the area
Credit unions in Columbia
50 credit-union locations from 18 credit unions.
| Credit union | Location |
|---|---|
| Grow Financial | 163 Forum Dr Ste 1, Columbia 29229 |
| Founders | 1400 Greene St Rm 227U, Columbia 29225 |
| Allsouth | 7471 Garners Ferry Rd, Columbia 29209 |
| Spero Financial | 1025 Pulaski St, Columbia 29201 |
| Navy Federal Credit Union | 149 Forum Dr, Columbia 29229 |
| South Carolina | 4503 Forest Dr, Columbia 29206 |
| Self-Help | 1545 Sumter St, Columbia 29201 |
| Safe | 595 Saint Andrews Rd, Columbia 29210 |
| S. C. State | 800 Huger St, Columbia 29201 |
| Palmetto Citizens | 1320 Washington St, Columbia 29201 |
Source: NCUA credit union branch data, June 30, 2026.
Nearby cities
County: Richland County · Lexington County · Payday Loans in Columbia · Personal Loans in Columbia
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a title loan in Columbia, SC?
Title loans are legal in South Carolina. You can start online; the lender will need to see the car and a lien-free (or nearly paid-off) title in your name.
How much can I get for my car title in Columbia?
A short-term vehicle secured loan may not exceed the car's fair market retail value under common industry appraisal guides. Most lenders lend a percentage of the car's wholesale value.
What happens if I miss a title loan payment in Columbia?
On a short-term vehicle secured loan, unless you committed fraud, the lender's only remedy on default is to repossess and sell the car. It may not sue you for the loan or for any shortfall after the sale.
How much can I get for a title loan in Columbia?
The amount depends mainly on your vehicle's value, along with your income and South Carolina rules. Lenders typically offer a portion of what your car is worth, so newer vehicles with lower mileage usually qualify for more. You'll see the exact amount and terms before signing. Enter your vehicle's details on our form to see what lenders may offer. It takes about 3 minutes.
What do I need for a title loan in Columbia?
Most lenders ask for a vehicle title in your name, ideally free of other liens, a valid government-issued ID, proof of income, proof of residence in South Carolina, and the vehicle itself for photos or a quick inspection. Some lenders also ask for proof of insurance or a spare key. Requirements vary by lender. Start our 3-minute form to see what lenders need from you.
Can I get a title loan on a financed car in Columbia?
Sometimes. If you still owe money on your car, some lenders may approve a title loan based on your equity, meaning the car's value minus what you owe. Others require a title that's fully paid off and in your name. Because policies vary, enter your vehicle and current loan details on our form, and lenders serving South Carolina will tell you what they can offer.
Can I refinance my title loan in Columbia?
Often, yes. Some lenders let you refinance an existing title loan into a new loan with a different payment amount or term, and a new lender may be able to pay off your current one. Options depend on your vehicle's value, your income and South Carolina rules. Enter your details on our form to see what lenders in our network can offer you. It takes about 3 minutes.
What is a title loan in Columbia?
A title loan is a loan secured by your vehicle's title. The lender holds a lien on your car while you keep driving it, and the lien is released once the loan is repaid. Because the car secures the loan, approval depends largely on your vehicle's value, not just your credit. Columbia drivers can start a title loan request online in about 3 minutes.
Do I need to visit a store in Columbia?
No. You can request offers online from a phone or computer. Some lenders, especially title lenders, may ask you to visit a location or send photos of your vehicle.