State Debt Laws
Georgia Debt Collection Laws
Garnishment limits, exemptions, and consumer protections specific to Georgia
Georgia (GA) - At a Glance
| State Consumer Protection Law | Georgia Fair Business Practices Act |
| Source | O.C.G.A. ยง 10-1-390 et seq. |
| Covers Original Creditors? | No - third-party collectors only |
| Max Wage Garnishment | 25% of disposable earnings (federal minimum; may be lower) |
| Bank Levy Exemption | $1,200 in bank |
| Homestead Exemption | $21,500 |
Key Protections in Georgia
- FDCPA applies to third-party collectors
- Georgia allows relatively aggressive collection
- Medical debt: 7-year credit reporting limit
Wage Garnishment in Georgia
After a court judgment, creditors in Georgia can garnish up to 25% of your disposable earnings (earnings after legally required deductions). This is the federal cap - Georgia follows federal law on this limit.
Exempt from garnishment: Federal benefits (Social Security, SSI, VA benefits) cannot be garnished by private creditors regardless of state law.
File a Complaint in Georgia
If a debt collector violates the FDCPA or Georgia Fair Business Practices Act:
- File with the Georgia Attorney General
- File with the CFPB
- Consult a consumer attorney (FDCPA violations = attorney fees paid by collector)