State Debt Laws
Rhode Island Debt Collection Laws
Garnishment limits, exemptions, and consumer protections specific to Rhode Island
Rhode Island (RI) - At a Glance
| State Consumer Protection Law | Rhode Island Debt Collection Practices Act |
| Source | R.I. Gen. Laws ยง 19-14.9-1 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 | $1,000 in bank |
| Homestead Exemption | $500,000 |
Key Protections in Rhode Island
- Very high homestead exemption ($500K)
- FDCPA applies to third-party collectors
- Debt Collection Practices Act mirrors FDCPA
Wage Garnishment in Rhode Island
After a court judgment, creditors in Rhode Island can garnish up to 25% of your disposable earnings (earnings after legally required deductions). This is the federal cap - Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island
If a debt collector violates the FDCPA or Rhode Island Debt Collection Practices Act:
- File with the Rhode Island Attorney General
- File with the CFPB
- Consult a consumer attorney (FDCPA violations = attorney fees paid by collector)
Rhode Island Debt Resources
SoL
Rhode Island Statute of Limitations
Credit card, medical, auto, and personal loan SoL in Rhode Island.
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 →