How to Get Rid of Crime in Skyrim?
As a master thief or a hero on the run, getting rid of a bounty in Skyrim can be a daunting task. With nine holds in the game, it’s not uncommon to rack up a hefty price on your head. In this article, we’ll explore the ways to eliminate a bounty, from paying the price to serving time in the jarl’s prison. By the end of this guide, you’ll know all the secrets to freeing yourself from the shackles of crime.
The Old-Fashioned Way: Paying the Bounty
The simplest way to get rid of a bounty is to pay the jarl’s tax collector, Hulda. This approach is straightforward but might come with a hefty price tag. Here’s what you need to know:
| Method | Cost | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Pay the Bounty | Depends on the hold, ranging from 1000 gold to 5000 gold | Make sure you have enough gold to spare or risk losing your stolen loot |
To pay the bounty, follow these steps:
- Approach Hulda in the desired hold.
- Convince her to collect the bounty, and she’ll deduct the amount from your funds.
Thieves’ Guild Discount
If you’re a member of the Thieves Guild, you might be eligible for a discount on your bounty. However, this approach is more costly than simply paying the standard rate. Here’s the breakdown:
| Method | Cost | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Thieves’ Guild Discount | Half the standard rate (approximately 500-2500 gold) | Available for Thieves Guild members |
To access the discount, follow these steps:
- Become a member of the Thieves Guild by completing the quest "Bleak Falls Barrow."
- Speak to Hulda with the Thieves Guild’s badge equipped.
Doing the Time
If paying off the bounty isn’t feasible, serving time in jail might be the best option. However, keep in mind that you’ll lose progress towards skill advancements the longer you’re locked away. Here’s the drill:
| Method | Duration | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Jail Sentence | 7 days max, with potential skill level clearances | Serve the maximum sentence to clear your record |
To do time in Skyrim’s jail:
- Commit a crime (e.g., murdering a guard or stealing).
- Be caught by authorities and sent to prison.
The Dark Roads
In rare cases, fleeing the scene and hiding on the roads might be a viable option. However, be prepared to face a hefty bounty on your head.
Tips and Tricks
When dealing with bounties in Skyrim, it’s essential to remember a few key strategies:
• Avoid committing crimes in highly populated areas to minimize witnesses and reduce the bounty’s visibility.
• Join the Thieves Guild to unlock better discounts on bounties.
• Keep an ear out for rumors, which might alert you to changes in bounty amounts or alternative methods for clearing your record.
• Be mindful of your surroundings, as traveling with heavy loot might trigger additional bounty alerts.
• Consider seeking help from companions or factions to improve your chances of clearing a high bounty.
The End of the Road: Disappearing the Record
In the rare instance that you’re unable to eliminate the bounty, disappearing your record might be the ultimate solution. However, be aware that this method erases your progress entirely. Here’s how it’s done:
- Enter the Jarl’s jail and find the Crime Record book in Hulda’s possession.
- Remove the book to erase your criminal history, effectively eliminating the bounty.
- Note that this method resets your game data, including character advancements.
In conclusion, clearing a bounty in Skyrim is not a trivial task, but with these methods, tips, and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a free agent. Remember to balance your crime and consequences with the consequences of erasing your record. Good luck, adventurer!