State Debt Laws
Maryland Debt Collection Laws
Garnishment limits, exemptions, and consumer protections specific to Maryland
Maryland (MD) - At a Glance
| State Consumer Protection Law | Maryland Consumer Debt Collection Act (MCDCA) |
| Source | Md. Code, Com. Law ยง 14-201 et seq. |
| Covers Original Creditors? | YES - covers original creditors too |
| Max Wage Garnishment | 25% of disposable earnings (federal minimum; may be lower) |
| Bank Levy Exemption | $1,500 in bank |
| Homestead Exemption | None |
Key Protections in Maryland
- MCDCA covers ORIGINAL creditors (beyond FDCPA)
- Prohibits oppressive, abusive, or unconscionable collection
- Private right of action with actual damages
- No homestead exemption - home equity at risk
Wage Garnishment in Maryland
After a court judgment, creditors in Maryland can garnish up to 25% of your disposable earnings (earnings after legally required deductions). This is the federal cap - Maryland 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 Maryland
If a debt collector violates the FDCPA or Maryland Consumer Debt Collection Act (MCDCA):
- File with the Maryland Attorney General
- File with the CFPB
- Consult a consumer attorney (FDCPA violations = attorney fees paid by collector)