State Debt Laws
Maine Debt Collection Laws
Garnishment limits, exemptions, and consumer protections specific to Maine
Maine (ME) - At a Glance
| State Consumer Protection Law | Maine Fair Debt Collection Practices Act |
| Source | 32 M.R.S. ยง 11001 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 | $6,000 in bank |
| Homestead Exemption | $80,000 |
Key Protections in Maine
- State law mirrors federal FDCPA
- High bank account exemption ($6,000)
- Collectors must be licensed in Maine
- Enhanced consumer protections beyond federal law
Wage Garnishment in Maine
After a court judgment, creditors in Maine can garnish up to 25% of your disposable earnings (earnings after legally required deductions). This is the federal cap - Maine 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 Maine
If a debt collector violates the FDCPA or Maine Fair Debt Collection Practices Act:
- File with the Maine Attorney General
- File with the CFPB
- Consult a consumer attorney (FDCPA violations = attorney fees paid by collector)