State Debt Laws
Washington Debt Collection Laws
Garnishment limits, exemptions, and consumer protections specific to Washington
Washington (WA) - At a Glance
| State Consumer Protection Law | Washington Collection Agency Act + Consumer Protection Act |
| Source | RCW ยง 19.16.100 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 | $2,500 in bank |
| Homestead Exemption | $125,000 |
Key Protections in Washington
- Collection agencies must be licensed in Washington
- Consumer Protection Act bars unfair practices
- High homestead exemption ($125K)
- Higher bank account exemption ($2,500)
Wage Garnishment in Washington
After a court judgment, creditors in Washington can garnish up to 25% of your disposable earnings (earnings after legally required deductions). This is the federal cap - Washington 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 Washington
If a debt collector violates the FDCPA or Washington Collection Agency Act + Consumer Protection Act:
- File with the Washington Attorney General
- File with the CFPB
- Consult a consumer attorney (FDCPA violations = attorney fees paid by collector)
Washington Debt Resources
SoL
Washington Statute of Limitations
Credit card, medical, auto, and personal loan SoL in Washington.
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 →