State Debt Laws
Virginia Debt Collection Laws
Garnishment limits, exemptions, and consumer protections specific to Virginia
Virginia (VA) - At a Glance
| State Consumer Protection Law | Virginia Consumer Protection Act (VCPA) |
| Source | Va. Code ยง 59.1-196 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 | $1,000 in bank |
| Homestead Exemption | $5,000 |
Key Protections in Virginia
- VCPA covers original creditors and collectors
- FDCPA applies to third-party collectors
- Low homestead exemption - home equity at risk
Wage Garnishment in Virginia
After a court judgment, creditors in Virginia can garnish up to 25% of your disposable earnings (earnings after legally required deductions). This is the federal cap - Virginia 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 Virginia
If a debt collector violates the FDCPA or Virginia Consumer Protection Act (VCPA):
- File with the Virginia Attorney General
- File with the CFPB
- Consult a consumer attorney (FDCPA violations = attorney fees paid by collector)