State Debt Laws
Massachusetts Debt Collection Laws
Garnishment limits, exemptions, and consumer protections specific to Massachusetts
Massachusetts (MA) - At a Glance
| State Consumer Protection Law | Massachusetts Consumer Protection Act (Chapter 93A) |
| Source | Mass. Gen. L. ch. 93A; ch. 93, ยง 24 |
| Covers Original Creditors? | YES - covers original creditors too |
| Max Wage Garnishment | 15% of disposable earnings (federal minimum; may be lower) |
| Bank Levy Exemption | $2,500 in bank |
| Homestead Exemption | $500,000 |
Key Protections in Massachusetts
- Chapter 93A covers unfair/deceptive acts by ALL creditors
- Double/triple damages for willful violations
- Attorney fees awarded to successful plaintiffs
- Lower wage garnishment cap (15%)
- High homestead exemption ($500K)
Wage Garnishment in Massachusetts
After a court judgment, creditors in Massachusetts can garnish up to 15% of your disposable earnings (earnings after legally required deductions). This is the federal cap - Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts
If a debt collector violates the FDCPA or Massachusetts Consumer Protection Act (Chapter 93A):
- File with the Massachusetts Attorney General
- File with the CFPB
- Consult a consumer attorney (FDCPA violations = attorney fees paid by collector)
Massachusetts Debt Resources
SoL
Massachusetts Statute of Limitations
Credit card, medical, auto, and personal loan SoL in Massachusetts.
View SoL →Free Tool
SoL Date Calculator
Calculate the exact SoL expiration date for your debt.
Check SoL →FDCPA
Federal Collector Rules
What debt collectors can and can't do under federal law.
Read Guide →