New Hampshire Debt Collection Laws

Garnishment limits, exemptions, and consumer protections specific to New Hampshire

New Hampshire (NH) - At a Glance

State Consumer Protection LawNew Hampshire Consumer Protection Act
SourceRSA ยง 358-A:1 et seq.
Covers Original Creditors?No - third-party collectors only
Max Wage Garnishment25% of disposable earnings (federal minimum; may be lower)
Bank Levy Exemption$1,000 in bank
Homestead Exemption$120,000

Key Protections in New Hampshire

  • FDCPA applies to third-party collectors
  • Consumer Protection Act covers deceptive debt collection
  • Homestead exemption: $120,000

Wage Garnishment in New Hampshire

After a court judgment, creditors in New Hampshire can garnish up to 25% of your disposable earnings (earnings after legally required deductions). This is the federal cap - New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire

If a debt collector violates the FDCPA or New Hampshire Consumer Protection Act: