State Debt Laws
Louisiana Debt Collection Laws
Garnishment limits, exemptions, and consumer protections specific to Louisiana
Louisiana (LA) - At a Glance
| State Consumer Protection Law | Louisiana Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law |
| Source | La. R.S. ยง 51:1401 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 | $5,000 in bank |
| Homestead Exemption | $35,000 |
Key Protections in Louisiana
- FDCPA applies to third-party collectors
- Higher bank account exemption ($5,000)
- Consumer Protection Law covers deceptive debt collection
Wage Garnishment in Louisiana
After a court judgment, creditors in Louisiana can garnish up to 25% of your disposable earnings (earnings after legally required deductions). This is the federal cap - Louisiana 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 Louisiana
If a debt collector violates the FDCPA or Louisiana Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law:
- File with the Louisiana Attorney General
- File with the CFPB
- Consult a consumer attorney (FDCPA violations = attorney fees paid by collector)