SC revenue department stepping up its debt-collection efforts

Debtors beware: The S.C. Department of Revenue is making it easier for state agencies to collect the fines and fees they’re owed.

An initiative announced this week with the state Ethics Commission is part of Revenue’s overall improvements to its two debt-collection programs, which are available to all agencies and local governments.

In one program, Revenue siphons money from income tax refunds the debtor would otherwise get. The other is more extensive, with recovery methods that include garnishing wages and seizing money from bank accounts.

Revenue has reduced the fee it charges agencies to collect. Other program improvements include more employees dedicated to collection efforts and less paperwork.

Revenue officials are in the process of meeting with agency officials to promote the changes.

Associated Press

This story was originally published September 12, 2015 at 8:09 PM with the headline "SC revenue department stepping up its debt-collection efforts."