State Debt Laws
Montana Debt Collection Laws
Garnishment limits, exemptions, and consumer protections specific to Montana
Montana (MT) - At a Glance
| State Consumer Protection Law | Montana Consumer Protection Act |
| Source | Mont. Code ยง 30-14-101 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 | $1,250 in bank |
| Homestead Exemption | $350,000 |
Key Protections in Montana
- High homestead exemption ($350K)
- FDCPA applies to third-party collectors
- Consumer Protection Act covers deceptive collection
Wage Garnishment in Montana
After a court judgment, creditors in Montana can garnish up to 25% of your disposable earnings (earnings after legally required deductions). This is the federal cap - Montana 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 Montana
If a debt collector violates the FDCPA or Montana Consumer Protection Act:
- File with the Montana Attorney General
- File with the CFPB
- Consult a consumer attorney (FDCPA violations = attorney fees paid by collector)