The layoff rate in the United States has continually increased since 2020 due to an unpredictable economy and disruption by tech. The job market is shrinking, and once-stable industries have undergone massive upheaval, leaving workers in a constant state of economic stress.

In this guide from Carolina Title Loans, Inc., we will explain how to get layoff assistance in South Carolina. We will review ways to bridge gaps in employment and how title loans can help when you need to afford bills after losing your job.

South Carolina Layoff Rate 2025 Explained

In July 2025, 25,000 people in South Carolina were laid off. Throughout 2025, the number has reached a staggering 174,000. If trends continue, this would put the number of people made redundant in the state close to 300,000 by the year's end.

This would be on par with 2023 and 2024 figures. Unfortunately, things don’t seem to be getting any better. The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that South Carolina’s redundancy rate is above the US average and potentially increasing. Unemployment in the state has driven more residents than ever to search for layoff assistance in South Carolina.

Further compounding the issue is that not only are a record number of people facing unemployment over the next year or so, but we are also facing unprecedented utility hikes and rental increases. This can lead to those facing redundancy wondering how they will make ends meet.

How Are Rising Costs Compounding Financial Stress?

While South Carolina has fared a little better than most other states, research shows that average rents have risen by about 30% since the pandemic. 2025 has seen a small decrease in average rental prices, but it is barely a blip for those already facing financial stress.

South Carolina residents are facing unprecedented rises in utility bills, particularly for electricity. This has been driven by large-scale investment in new power plants and upgrades to the energy grid funded by residents. The problem has worsened with the new Energy Security Act, which allows utility companies to raise energy prices gradually. While this legislation aims to prevent sudden cost spikes, it does little for those already struggling.

Furthermore, we are experiencing price hikes in food, drinks, and basic living essentials. These challenges are tough enough for employed individuals, and even harder for those who have lost their jobs.

How To Budget After A South Carolina Layoff

If you’ve been laid off recently, don’t panic. There are ways to afford your bills with the money you have until you get a new job. However, you will have to create a strict budget to ensure you can afford all of your expenses.

Start by making a list of all the income you have. This can include unemployment, side jobs, and any severance pay you receive. If you’ve got savings, make a note of those too. You might need to draw on them if things get a bit tough. You will have to deduct your monthly expenses from your income to see if you can afford your lifestyle.

If you cannot afford your expenses on your current income, you will have to start cutting costs and finding ways to live a more frugal lifestyle. These changes may only be temporary while trying to find a new job, but the changes are necessary to ensure you don’t lose your home, apartment, or car.

Here are some ways to cut costs to afford your budget:

• Cancel unnecessary subscriptions
• Stop eating out or getting food delivered
• Shop for generic brand groceries instead of name brands
• Take advantage of free entertainment (parks, libraries, nights at home with friends, etc.)

Cutting these costs can also help if you need utility bill help in SC. If your utility bills went up, you will have to shave off costs somewhere to make up the difference. You can also afford the rising costs of utility bills by working side hustles.

What Alternative Sources Of Income and Assistance Options Are Available?

While you’re on the hunt for a new job, it is advised to consider other income sources. This can include side gigs, freelance work, and part-time jobs. In a tough economy, consider any available job as every cent flowing in helps. You can use skills you developed in your career to make extra cash to help until you regain full-time employment.

The following are some side hustles that can help you after you’ve been laid off:

• Freelancer writing and editing
• Driving for Uber or Lyft
• Delivering food with DoorDash, Uber Eats, or Instacart
• Graphic design
• Remote assistant jobs
• Social media management

You’ll also find plenty of community programs that offer layoff assistance in South Carolina. This includes food banks. There may also be some government assistance for rent, utilities, and food if you’re really struggling, including SNAP (food), Section 8 (housing), and the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (utility bills).

How Can A Title Loan Help After Getting Laid Off

After you’ve been laid off, you may not have the luxury of waiting to get a new job to afford important expenses, such as rent, car payments, food, etc. If you’re dealing with a financial emergency, you may need to consider a short-term option like a title loan.

Companies such as Carolina Title Loans, Inc. allow you to borrow cash against the value of your vehicle by using a lien-free vehicle title as collateral. Depending on the value of your vehicle, you could receive between $601 and $15,000. However, you will need to own your car, truck, or van outright

To get approved for a title loan in South Carolina, you will need the following required items:

• A driver’s license or state-issued photo ID that displays your full name and date of birth
• A lien-free vehicle title in your name
• Your vehicle for a quick inspection

To start the process, you can fill out our online inquiry form with your name, contact information, zip code, and vehicle details. We will call you shortly to explain the process and answer any questions. You can then bring your required items to the nearest South Carolina store location, and we will inspect your documents and car in less than 30 minutes. You can then sign the loan agreement and receive your cash within one business day.

Note: Only borrow title loans if you feel you can repay the loan. Failing to make payments can lead to defaulting on the loan. In this case, we can seize your car. Prepare a repayment plan before borrowing.

Borrow Title Loans In South Carolina – Borrow Up To $15,000 Today!

Getting laid off or having your utility bills increase dramatically can come out of nowhere. When you have urgent costs you cannot afford, Carolina Title Loans, Inc. is here to help. Our title loans are available to South Carolina residents who own their vehicle outright. All credit types are accepted, and you can even keep your car during repayment.

Ready to get the fast emergency financing you need? Begin by filling out our online title loan form on this website. We will call you soon to explain how the process works. You can then visit us in person to get approved in less than 30 minutes. Get same-day approval and receive your funds within one business day!

Note: The content provided in this article is only for informational purposes, and you should contact your financial advisor about your specific financial situation.