50-State Debt Collection Defense Guide (All 50 States + D.C.)

Last updated: July 21, 2026 · Compiled from primary statutory sources (federal & state .gov, Cornell LII, eCFR).

When a debt collector contacts you, both federal and state law protect you. The federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA, 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq.) sets the baseline for third-party collectors. Many states add their own protections — some through "mini-FDCPA" laws that also cover original creditors, others through collection-agency licensing and consumer-protection acts.

Use the index below to jump to your state. Every section cites the actual statute.

Not legal advice. This guide summarizes publicly available statutes for general information only. Laws change and facts matter — consult a licensed attorney in your state for your situation.

How this guide is researched

Primary sources only. Every state section cites the actual statute — federal law via Cornell LII / eCFR, and state law via official .gov legislative codes.
Citations on every claim. Each section ends with its source and authority links so you can verify the text against the primary authority yourself.
AI-assisted, source-verified. Content is drafted with AI assistance from structured statutory data, then checked against the cited primary sources. We do not invent statutes or citations.
Kept current. Statutes change. This compilation was last reviewed on July 21, 2026; we correct errors promptly when identified. See our Editorial Standards & Methodology.
Not legal advice. This is general information, not a substitute for a licensed attorney in your state.

All 50 States + D.C.

Jump to Frequently Asked Questions ↓

Alabama — Debt Collection Defense

Alabama — No standalone state act — federal FDCPA only. Alabama has no state 'mini-FDCPA'; consumers rely on the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. The Alabama Deceptive Trade Practices Act (Ala. Code § 8-19-1 et seq.) provides a state-layer UDAP remedy — a private right of action with actual damages (statutory minimum) and, in the court's discretion, up to treble damages plus attorney's fees — that can reach abusive or deceptive collection conduct. The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in Alabama; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq.

Debt Validation Rights

Alabama — AL debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Alabama consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq.

Statute of Limitations

Alabama — AL statute of limitations. In Alabama a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 6 years (open account: 3 years) under Ala. Code § 6-2-37 (open accounts, 3 yrs); § 6-2-34 (written contracts not under seal, 6 yrs); § 6-2-33 (contracts under seal, 10 yrs); suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Open accounts (including many credit cards) 3 years; simple written contracts 6 years; contracts under seal 10 years; oral contracts 6 years. Credit-card debt may be litigated as either an open account (3 yrs) or a written contract (6 yrs).

Authority: Ala. Code § 6-2-37 (open accounts, 3 yrs); § 6-2-34 (written contracts not under seal, 6 yrs); § 6-2-33 (contracts under seal, 10 yrs); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Alabama — AL wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Alabama, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Lesser of 25% of disposable earnings or the amount exceeding 30 times the federal minimum wage (for consumer debts created on or after April 12, 1988). Older consumer debts are capped at 20% (or the amount over 50 times the federal minimum wage). No additional state percentage protection beyond the federal floor. Mirrors the federal CCPA 25% cap. Child support, taxes, and defaulted federal student loans (15%, administrative) follow separate, higher rules.

Authority: Ala. Code § 5-19-15 (consumer loans/credit sales/leases); § 6-10-7 (other judgments) + 15 U.S.C. § 1673; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Alabama — AL FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Alabama consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq.

Alaska — Debt Collection Defense

Alaska — Alaska Collection Agency Licensing Act (AS 08.24) + Unfair Trade Practices & Consumer Protection Act (AS 45.50.471 et seq., applied to debt collection). Alaska has no standalone 'Fair Debt Collection Practices Act' by that name. Debt collection is regulated through (1) the Collection Agency Licensing Act (AS 08.24), requiring agencies to be licensed/bonded, and (2) the Alaska Unfair Trade Practices & Consumer Protection Act (AS 45.50.471 et seq.), which reaches unfair/deceptive collection conduct by original creditors and collectors alike — broader than the federal FDCPA. The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in Alaska; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: AS 08.24.041 et seq. (licensing); AS 45.50.471 et seq. (substantive UTPA)

Debt Validation Rights

Alaska — AK debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Alaska consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); AS 08.24.041 et seq. (licensing); AS 45.50.471 et seq. (substantive UTPA)

Statute of Limitations

Alaska — AK statute of limitations. In Alaska a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 3 years (open account: 3 years) under AS 09.10.053; suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Alaska applies a uniform 3-year limitation to contract actions, whether written, oral, or open account (AS 09.10.053, 'actions upon a contract or liability, express or implied'). Promissory notes may be governed by the UCC (AS 45.03.118, 6 years). One of the shortest SOL periods in the U.S.

Authority: AS 09.10.053; 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Alaska — AK wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Alaska, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Alaska generally follows the federal CCPA cap (≤25% of disposable earnings, or the amount by which disposable earnings exceed 30× federal minimum wage). State law adds a low-income exemption protecting weekly net earnings (AS 09.38.030), currently about $473/week standard / $743/week head-of-household (adjusted by regulation). Alaska does not impose a stricter percentage cap than the federal 25%; its added protection is a dollar-floor exemption for low earners. Federal CCPA caps still apply to child support, taxes, and federal student loans.

Authority: AS 09.38.030 (exemption); garnishment authorized by AS 09.40.010; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Alaska — AK FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Alaska consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); AS 08.24.041 et seq. (licensing); AS 45.50.471 et seq. (substantive UTPA)

Arizona — Debt Collection Defense

Arizona — Arizona Collection Agency Act (A.R.S. § 32-1001 et seq.); debt-collection conduct also covered by the Arizona Consumer Fraud Act (A.R.S. § 44-1521 et seq.) — no standalone mini-FDCPA for original creditors. Arizona licenses and regulates collection agencies under Title 32, Chapter 9 (A.R.S. § 32-1001 et seq.). There is no separate Arizona 'fair debt collection practices act' extending FDCPA protections to original creditors; abusive or deceptive collection conduct is addressed through the federal FDCPA and the Arizona Consumer Fraud Act (A.R.S. § 44-1521 et seq.). The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in Arizona; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: A.R.S. § 32-1001 et seq. (and A.R.S. § 44-1521 et seq.)

Debt Validation Rights

Arizona — AZ debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Arizona consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); A.R.S. § 32-1001 et seq. (and A.R.S. § 44-1521 et seq.)

Statute of Limitations

Arizona — AZ statute of limitations. In Arizona a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 6 years (open account: 3 years) under A.R.S. § 12-548 (written); A.R.S. § 12-543 (open account/oral); suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Written contract for debt 6 yrs (A.R.S. § 12-548, includes credit cards); open account and oral contract 3 yrs (A.R.S. § 12-543).

Authority: A.R.S. § 12-548 (written); A.R.S. § 12-543 (open account/oral); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Arizona — AZ wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Arizona, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Lesser of 10% of disposable earnings OR the amount by which weekly disposable earnings exceed 60x the applicable minimum wage (whichever is less). Arizona's 10% cap is far stricter than the federal 25% CCPA cap. Federal CCPA 25% cap still applies to child support, taxes, and federal student loans. Support orders are capped separately at 50% of disposable earnings (A.R.S. § 33-1131(C)).

Authority: A.R.S. § 33-1131 (see also A.R.S. § 12-1598.10); 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Arizona — AZ FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Arizona consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); A.R.S. § 32-1001 et seq. (and A.R.S. § 44-1521 et seq.)

Arkansas — Debt Collection Defense

Arkansas — Arkansas Fair Debt Collection Practices Act.

Source: Ark. Code Ann. § 17-24-501 et seq.

Debt Validation Rights

Arkansas — AR debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Arkansas consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt. Arkansas's Arkansas Fair Debt Collection Practices Act extends similar protections to original creditors collecting consumer debts.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); Ark. Code Ann. § 17-24-501 et seq.

Statute of Limitations

Arkansas — AR statute of limitations. In Arkansas a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 5 years (open account: 3 years) under Ark. Code Ann. § 16-56-111 (written contracts, 5 yrs); § 16-56-105(1) (open accounts & oral, 3 yrs); suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Written contracts and promissory notes 5 years; open accounts and oral contracts 3 years. Credit cards may be treated as an open account (3 yrs) or a written contract (5 yrs) depending on the documents produced. Medical debt is 2 years (§ 16-56-106).

Authority: Ark. Code Ann. § 16-56-111 (written contracts, 5 yrs); § 16-56-105(1) (open accounts & oral, 3 yrs); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Arkansas — AR wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Arkansas, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Lesser of 25% of disposable earnings or the amount exceeding 30 times the federal minimum wage; plus an absolute exemption of the first $25/week of net wages for laborers and mechanics (no filing required), and up to 60 days' wages if claimed by sworn statement. Mirrors the federal CCPA 25% cap and adds a $25/week absolute floor for laborers/mechanics. Child support, taxes, and defaulted federal student loans (15%) follow higher federal caps.

Authority: Ark. Code Ann. § 16-66-208 (wages of laborers/mechanics); federal 15 U.S.C. § 1673; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Arkansas — AR FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Arkansas consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action. Arkansas's Arkansas Fair Debt Collection Practices Act provides parallel state-law remedies.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); Ark. Code Ann. § 17-24-501 et seq.

California — Debt Collection Defense

California — California Rosenthal Fair Debt Collection Act. California's Rosenthal Act extends FDCPA-style protections to original creditors collecting consumer debts.

Source: Cal. Civ. Code § 1788 (Rosenthal Act)

Debt Validation Rights

California — CA debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a California consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); Cal. Civ. Code § 1788 et seq.

Statute of Limitations

California — CA statute of limitations. In California a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within the statutory limitations period; suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. The period is set by state law.

Authority: Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 337 (4 years); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

California — CA wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in California, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state exemption law. Some states bar most consumer wage garnishment entirely.

Authority: Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 706.050 et seq.; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

California — CA fdCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a California consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); Cal. Civ. Code § 1788 et seq.

Colorado — Debt Collection Defense

Colorado — Colorado Fair Debt Collection Practices Act.

Source: C.R.S. § 5-16-101 et seq.

Debt Validation Rights

Colorado — CO debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Colorado consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt. Colorado's Colorado Fair Debt Collection Practices Act extends similar protections to original creditors collecting consumer debts.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); C.R.S. § 5-16-101 et seq.

Statute of Limitations

Colorado — CO statute of limitations. In Colorado a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 6 years (open account: 6 years) under C.R.S. § 13-80-103.5; suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Actions to recover a liquidated debt or enforce rights under a debt instrument: 6 yrs (C.R.S. § 13-80-103.5). General written/oral contracts are 3 yrs under C.R.S. § 13-80-101, but debt-collection actions fall under the 6-yr statute.

Authority: C.R.S. § 13-80-103.5; 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Colorado — CO wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Colorado, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Lesser of 20% of disposable earnings, OR the amount by which disposable earnings exceed 40x the federal minimum wage, OR the amount by which they exceed 40x the Colorado state minimum wage (whichever minimum is higher). Colorado's 20% cap is stricter than the federal 25% CCPA cap. Separate Uniform Consumer Credit Code cap (C.R.S. § 5-5-106) is 25%/30x for consumer-credit judgments, but C.R.S. § 13-54-104 (execution garnishment) is more protective and governs. Federal CCPA 25% cap still applies to child support, taxes, and federal student loans.

Authority: C.R.S. § 13-54-104; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Colorado — CO FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Colorado consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action. Colorado's Colorado Fair Debt Collection Practices Act provides parallel state-law remedies.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); C.R.S. § 5-16-101 et seq.

Connecticut — Debt Collection Defense

Connecticut — Connecticut Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Connecticut's act prohibits creditors and consumer collection agencies from using abusive, harassing, fraudulent, deceptive or misleading practices to collect consumer debts and provides a private right of action (up to $1,000 statutory damages plus actual damages, costs, attorney fees).

Source: Conn. Gen. Stat. § 36a-645 et seq. (consumer collection agencies: § 36a-800 et seq.)

Debt Validation Rights

Connecticut — CT debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Connecticut consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt. Connecticut's Connecticut Fair Debt Collection Practices Act extends similar protections to original creditors collecting consumer debts.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); Conn. Gen. Stat. § 36a-645 et seq. (consumer collection agencies: § 36a-800 et seq.)

Statute of Limitations

Connecticut — CT statute of limitations. In Connecticut a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 6 years (open account: 6 years) under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 52-576 (written contracts, accounts, simple/implied contracts); § 52-581 (oral contracts); suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Written contracts, accounts, and simple/implied contracts: 6 years (§ 52-576). Oral contracts: 3 years (§ 52-581). Negotiable promissory notes: 6 years (§ 42a-3-118).

Authority: Conn. Gen. Stat. § 52-576 (written contracts, accounts, simple/implied contracts); § 52-581 (oral contracts); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Connecticut — CT wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Connecticut, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Lesser of 25% of disposable earnings OR the amount by which disposable earnings exceed 40 times the higher of the federal or Connecticut minimum wage, per week (applies to consumer-debt judgments). Connecticut applies the federal CCPA 25% cap but with a more generous 40x-minimum-wage floor. Federal CCPA higher caps still apply to child support, taxes, and student loans.

Authority: Conn. Gen. Stat. § 52-361a(f); 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Connecticut — CT FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Connecticut consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action. Connecticut's Connecticut Fair Debt Collection Practices Act provides parallel state-law remedies.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); Conn. Gen. Stat. § 36a-645 et seq. (consumer collection agencies: § 36a-800 et seq.)

Delaware — Debt Collection Defense

Delaware — Delaware Consumer Fraud Act (Delaware has no standalone FDCPA-type debt collection act; federal FDCPA applies). Delaware has no comprehensive standalone fair-debt-collection act. Debt collection conduct is regulated mainly by the federal FDCPA (15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq.). The Delaware Consumer Fraud Act (6 Del. C. § 2501 et seq.) prohibits deceptive trade practices and can reach deceptive debt-collection conduct, and collection agencies must be licensed under 6 Del. C. § 2401 et seq. The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in Delaware; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: 6 Del. C. § 2501 et seq. (see also 6 Del. C. § 2401 et seq., collection agency licensing)

Debt Validation Rights

Delaware — DE debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Delaware consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); 6 Del. C. § 2501 et seq. (see also 6 Del. C. § 2401 et seq., collection agency licensing)

Statute of Limitations

Delaware — DE statute of limitations. In Delaware a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 3 years (open account: 3 years) under Del. Code tit. 10, § 8106; suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Written contracts, oral contracts, and debts on account: 3 years (§ 8106). Sale of goods under the UCC: 4 years (6 Del. C. § 2-725). A money judgment is enforceable for 5 years (§ 5072).

Authority: Del. Code tit. 10, § 8106; 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Delaware — DE wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Delaware, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Eighty-five percent of a debtor's wages are exempt from attachment; creditors may garnish only 15% of wages. This 15% cap is stricter than the federal CCPA 25% cap and is the most protective rule applied. Delaware's 15% cap is well below the federal 25% and controls over the federal limit for ordinary consumer debts. Child support, taxes, and federal student loans follow their own higher federal limits.

Authority: Del. Code tit. 10, § 4913; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Delaware — DE FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Delaware consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); 6 Del. C. § 2501 et seq. (see also 6 Del. C. § 2401 et seq., collection agency licensing)

District of Columbia — Debt Collection Defense

District of Columbia — District of Columbia Debt Collection Law (within the D.C. Consumer Credit Protection Act); also the D.C. Consumer Protection Procedures Act (CPPA). D.C. Code § 28-3814 comprehensively regulates consumer debt collection, prohibiting threats/coercion, harassment, unreasonable publication, deceptive representations, and unfair means, and requiring documentation and notice. A violation of the federal FDCPA is also a violation of § 28-3814. The CPPA (§ 28-3901 et seq.) separately provides consumers a private right of action with treble damages. The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in District of Columbia; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: D.C. Code § 28-3814 (see also D.C. Code §§ 28-3901 to 28-3913, CPPA)

Debt Validation Rights

District of Columbia — DC debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a District of Columbia consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); D.C. Code § 28-3814 (see also D.C. Code §§ 28-3901 to 28-3913, CPPA)

Statute of Limitations

District of Columbia — DC statute of limitations. In District of Columbia a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 3 years (open account: 3 years) under D.C. Code § 12-301; suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Simple (express or implied) contracts and open accounts: 3 years (§ 12-301(7)). Contracts under seal: 12 years (§ 12-301(6)). Sale of goods under the UCC: 4 years (§ 28:2-725).

Authority: D.C. Code § 12-301; 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

District of Columbia — DC wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in District of Columbia, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Wage attachment is limited to 25% of disposable wages for the week that exceed 40 times the D.C. minimum hourly wage; employees earning 40× the D.C. minimum wage or less per week are fully protected. The 25% ceiling matches the federal CCPA, but the floor is based on D.C.'s higher minimum wage ($17.50), making it more protective. Percentage cap (25%) equals federal CCPA; protection comes from the 40× D.C.-minimum-wage floor. Debtors may also move to exempt additional wages for undue financial hardship (§ 16-572a). Child support, taxes, and student loans follow higher federal limits.

Authority: D.C. Code § 16-572 (Wage Garnishment Fairness Amendment Act of 2018, D.C. Law 22-296); 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

District of Columbia — DC FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a District of Columbia consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); D.C. Code § 28-3814 (see also D.C. Code §§ 28-3901 to 28-3913, CPPA)

Florida — Debt Collection Defense

Florida — FL state debt collection overview. Florida debt collection is governed primarily by the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), which applies to third-party debt collectors, plus the state Florida debt-collection statute. Debt buyers and original creditors are subject to these rules; consumers have rights to dispute and verify debts and to sue for violations.

Source: Fla. Stat. § 559.72; 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq. (FDCPA); 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); 15 U.S.C. § 1681 (FCRA); 12 C.F.R. § 1006 (Reg F); 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III garnishment)

Debt Validation Rights

Florida — FL debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Florida consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); Fla. Stat. § 559.72

Statute of Limitations

Florida — FL statute of limitations. In Florida a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within the statutory limitations period; suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. The period is set by state law.

Authority: Fla. Stat. § 95.11(2)(b) (5 years); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Florida — FL wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Florida, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state exemption law. Some states bar most consumer wage garnishment entirely.

Authority: Fla. Stat. § 222.11 (head-of-family exemption); 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Florida — FL fdCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Florida consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); Fla. Stat. § 559.72

Georgia — Debt Collection Defense

Georgia — GA state debt collection overview. Georgia debt collection is governed primarily by the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), which applies to third-party debt collectors, plus the state Georgia debt-collection statute. Debt buyers and original creditors are subject to these rules; consumers have rights to dispute and verify debts and to sue for violations.

Source: Ga. Code § 16-9-111; 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq. (FDCPA); 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); 15 U.S.C. § 1681 (FCRA); 12 C.F.R. § 1006 (Reg F); 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III garnishment)

Debt Validation Rights

Georgia — GA debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Georgia consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); Ga. Code § 16-9-111

Statute of Limitations

Georgia — GA statute of limitations. In Georgia a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within the statutory limitations period; suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. The period is set by state law.

Authority: O.C.G.A. § 9-3-24 (6 years); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Georgia — GA wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Georgia, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state exemption law. Some states bar most consumer wage garnishment entirely.

Authority: O.C.G.A. § 18-4-20 et seq.; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Georgia — GA fdCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Georgia consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); Ga. Code § 16-9-111

Hawaii — Debt Collection Defense

Hawaii — Hawaii Fair Practices for Collection Agencies Act (HRS § 480D-1 et seq.); collection agencies also regulated under HRS ch. 443B. Hawaii's standalone debt-collection act is the Fair Practices for Collection Agencies Act (HRS § 480D-1 et seq.), with collection agencies separately licensed and regulated under HRS ch. 443B. Violations of ch. 443B are automatically unfair/deceptive acts under HRS § 480-2, giving consumers treble-damages remedies under HRS § 480-13. The federal FDCPA also applies to third-party collectors. The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in Hawaii; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: Haw. Rev. Stat. § 480D-1 et seq.

Debt Validation Rights

Hawaii — HI debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Hawaii consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); Haw. Rev. Stat. § 480D-1 et seq.

Statute of Limitations

Hawaii — HI statute of limitations. In Hawaii a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 6 years (open account: 6 years) under Haw. Rev. Stat. § 657-1(1); suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Hawaii allows 6 years for actions to recover any debt founded on a contract, obligation, or liability (§ 657-1(1)), covering written contracts, oral contracts, and open accounts/collection of debt on account alike. Judgments are enforceable 10 years (§ 657-5).

Authority: Haw. Rev. Stat. § 657-1(1); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Hawaii — HI wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Hawaii, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Tiered, more protective than federal: 5% of the first $100/month of disposable wages, 10% of the next $100/month, and 20% of all amounts over $200/month (plus a cost-of-living exemption). Hawaii's graduated formula shields far more wages than the federal 25% cap for most earners, but it does NOT ban consumer wage garnishment (unlike TX/PA/NC/SC). Child support, taxes, and federal student loans follow their own federal limits.

Authority: Haw. Rev. Stat. § 652-1; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Hawaii — HI FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Hawaii consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); Haw. Rev. Stat. § 480D-1 et seq.

Idaho — Debt Collection Defense

Idaho — Idaho Collection Agency Act (state debt-collection licensing/regulation; no standalone mini-FDCPA for original creditors). Idaho regulates debt collection through the Idaho Collection Agency Act, which requires collection agencies, debt counselors, credit counselors, and credit-repair organizations to be licensed by the Idaho Department of Finance and prohibits operating without a license. The Act is a licensing/conduct regime for third-party collectors and does NOT extend FDCPA-style liability to original creditors. Deceptive or unfair collection conduct by any actor can also be reached under Idaho's general Consumer Protection Act, Idaho Code § 48-601 et seq. Idaho does not have a state statute that independently mirrors the federal FDCPA for original creditors. The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in Idaho; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: Idaho Code § 26-2221 et seq. (Title 26, Chapter 22, 'Idaho Collection Agency Act')

Debt Validation Rights

Idaho — ID debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Idaho consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); Idaho Code § 26-2221 et seq. (Title 26, Chapter 22, 'Idaho Collection Agency Act')

Statute of Limitations

Idaho — ID statute of limitations. In Idaho a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 5 years (open account: 4 years) under Idaho Code § 5-216 (written contracts, 5 years); § 5-217 (contracts not in writing / oral, 4 years); suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Idaho has no separate 'open account' limitations category; revolving/open accounts and oral agreements are generally governed by the 4-year period for contracts not in writing (§ 5-217). Credit-card debt is typically treated as a 4-year (oral/not-in-writing) obligation unless documented as a written contract.

Authority: Idaho Code § 5-216 (written contracts, 5 years); § 5-217 (contracts not in writing / oral, 4 years); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Idaho — ID wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Idaho, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Idaho follows the federal CCPA Title III cap exactly: consumer-debt wage garnishment may not exceed the lesser of 25% of weekly disposable earnings or the amount by which disposable earnings exceed 30 times the federal minimum hourly wage (~$217.50/week). This is EQUAL TO the federal 25% cap. Idaho Code § 11-207. Exceptions: court orders for child/spousal support (50–65%, higher) and any debt due for state or federal taxes are not subject to the 25% cap.

Authority: Idaho Code § 11-207 (Restriction on Garnishment — Maximum); federal baseline 15 U.S.C. § 1673; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Idaho — ID FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Idaho consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); Idaho Code § 26-2221 et seq. (Title 26, Chapter 22, 'Idaho Collection Agency Act')

Illinois — Debt Collection Defense

Illinois — IL state debt collection overview. Illinois debt collection is governed primarily by the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), which applies to third-party debt collectors, plus the state Illinois debt-collection statute. Debt buyers and original creditors are subject to these rules; consumers have rights to dispute and verify debts and to sue for violations.

Source: 225 ILCS 425/; 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq. (FDCPA); 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); 15 U.S.C. § 1681 (FCRA); 12 C.F.R. § 1006 (Reg F); 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III garnishment)

Debt Validation Rights

Illinois — IL debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Illinois consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); 225 ILCS 425/

Statute of Limitations

Illinois — IL statute of limitations. In Illinois a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within the statutory limitations period; suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. The period is set by state law.

Authority: 735 ILCS 5/13-206 (10 years); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Illinois — IL wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Illinois, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state exemption law. Some states bar most consumer wage garnishment entirely.

Authority: 735 ILCS 5/12-801 et seq.; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Illinois — IL fdCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Illinois consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); 225 ILCS 425/

Indiana — Debt Collection Defense

Indiana — No standalone mini-FDCPA; debt collection covered by the Indiana Deceptive Consumer Sales Act and the Uniform Consumer Credit Code; collection agencies licensed (no dedicated state FDCPA act). The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in Indiana; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: Ind. Code § 24-5-0.5 (Deceptive Consumer Sales Act); 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq. (FDCPA)

Debt Validation Rights

Indiana — IN debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Indiana consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); Ind. Code § 24-5-0.5 (Deceptive Consumer Sales Act); 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq. (FDCPA)

Statute of Limitations

Indiana — IN statute of limitations. In Indiana a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 6 years (open account: 6 years) under Written contracts FOR THE PAYMENT OF MONEY (credit cards, loans, promissory notes): IC 34-11-2-9 (6 yrs); other written contracts: IC 34-11-2-11 (10 yrs); oral / open account: IC 34-11-2-7 (6 yrs); suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Key nuance: Indiana splits written contracts. Consumer written obligations to pay money = 6 years (IC 34-11-2-9); other written contracts such as service agreements or mortgage-foreclosure actions = 10 years (IC 34-11-2-11). Open account and oral contracts = 6 years (IC 34-11-2-7). For the task's consumer-debt 'written contract' the answer is 6 years.

Authority: Written contracts FOR THE PAYMENT OF MONEY (credit cards, loans, promissory notes): IC 34-11-2-9 (6 yrs); other written contracts: IC 34-11-2-11 (10 yrs); oral / open account: IC 34-11-2-7 (6 yrs); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Indiana — IN wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Indiana, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Follows the federal CCPA: the lesser of 25% of disposable earnings OR the amount by which weekly disposable earnings exceed 30× the federal minimum wage. A court may reduce the rate to as low as 10% of disposable earnings upon a showing of good cause (hardship). Indiana has no separate head-of-family wage cap beyond the federal floor. The federal CCPA caps still apply to allowed categories: child support (50–65%), taxes, and federal student loans (15% administrative).

Authority: Ind. Code § 24-4.5-5-105 (limitation on garnishment); IC 34-25-3 (garnishment proceedings); 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Indiana — IN FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Indiana consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); Ind. Code § 24-5-0.5 (Deceptive Consumer Sales Act); 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq. (FDCPA)

Iowa — Debt Collection Defense

Iowa — Iowa Debt Collection Practices Act.

Source: Iowa Code §§ 537.7101 to 537.7103 (Art. 7, Ch. 537)

Debt Validation Rights

Iowa — IA debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Iowa consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt. Iowa's Iowa Debt Collection Practices Act extends similar protections to original creditors collecting consumer debts.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); Iowa Code §§ 537.7101 to 537.7103 (Art. 7, Ch. 537)

Statute of Limitations

Iowa — IA statute of limitations. In Iowa a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 10 years (open account: 5 years) under Iowa Code § 614.1(5) (written); § 614.1(4) (unwritten/open account); suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Written contracts 10 years (one of the longest in the U.S.); unwritten contracts and open accounts 5 years. Credit cards often treated as open accounts (5 yrs) but can be argued as written (10 yrs) — contested.

Authority: Iowa Code § 614.1(5) (written); § 614.1(4) (unwritten/open account); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Iowa — IA wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Iowa, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Lesser of 25% of disposable weekly earnings or the amount by which disposable earnings exceed 40x the federal minimum hourly wage (Iowa Code § 537.5105(2)); Iowa Code § 642.21(1) also incorporates federal CCPA limits and adds a more protective tiered ANNUAL cap (e.g., max $250/yr if expected earnings <= $12,000, rising to 10% for earnings >= $50,000). Federal CCPA 25% floor still applies to child support, taxes, and federal student loans; Iowa's annual cap makes low-income garnishment stricter than federal.

Authority: Iowa Code § 642.21(1) and § 537.5105(2); 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Iowa — IA FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Iowa consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action. Iowa's Iowa Debt Collection Practices Act provides parallel state-law remedies.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); Iowa Code §§ 537.7101 to 537.7103 (Art. 7, Ch. 537)

Kansas — Debt Collection Defense

Kansas — Kansas Consumer Protection Act (applied to debt collection). The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in Kansas; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: K.S.A. §§ 50-623 to 50-643

Debt Validation Rights

Kansas — KS debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Kansas consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); K.S.A. §§ 50-623 to 50-643

Statute of Limitations

Kansas — KS statute of limitations. In Kansas a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 5 years (open account: 3 years) under K.S.A. § 60-511 (written); § 60-512 (oral/open account); suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Written contracts 5 years; oral contracts and open-ended/revolving accounts (credit cards) 3 years. Domestic judgments 15 years.

Authority: K.S.A. § 60-511 (written); § 60-512 (oral/open account); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Kansas — KS wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Kansas, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Lesser of 25% of disposable earnings or the amount by which disposable earnings exceed 30x the federal minimum wage. Kansas imposes no stricter state percentage cap for ordinary consumer debts (follows federal CCPA). Federal CCPA 25% cap still applies to child support, taxes, and federal student loans (which follow separate, higher limits).

Authority: K.S.A. § 60-2310; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Kansas — KS FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Kansas consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); K.S.A. §§ 50-623 to 50-643

Kentucky — Debt Collection Defense

Kentucky — Kentucky Consumer Protection Act — debt-collection provisions within KRS Ch. 367 (2016 HB 558 added a section listing unlawful collection practices); no standalone FDCPA-style act. The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in Kentucky; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: KRS 367.170 (Unlawful Acts) and debt-collection provisions added to KRS Ch. 367 by 2016 Ky. Acts (HB 558); 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq. (FDCPA)

Debt Validation Rights

Kentucky — KY debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Kentucky consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); KRS 367.170 (Unlawful Acts) and debt-collection provisions added to KRS Ch. 367 by 2016 Ky. Acts (HB 558); 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq. (FDCPA)

Statute of Limitations

Kentucky — KY statute of limitations. In Kentucky a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 10 years (open account: 5 years) under Written contracts executed on/after July 15, 2014: KRS 413.160 (10 yrs); executed before July 15, 2014: KRS 413.090 (15 yrs); Open accounts / oral contracts: KRS 413.120 (5 yrs); promissory notes: KRS 355.3-118 (6 yrs); suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Key nuance: Kentucky shortened the written-contract SOL from 15 to 10 years for contracts executed on/after July 15, 2014 (HB 369). Most current consumer debts = 10 years; older written contracts = 15 years. Open accounts and oral contracts = 5 years. Credit-card debt is litigated as either 5 or 10 years.

Authority: Written contracts executed on/after July 15, 2014: KRS 413.160 (10 yrs); executed before July 15, 2014: KRS 413.090 (15 yrs); Open accounts / oral contracts: KRS 413.120 (5 yrs); promissory notes: KRS 355.3-118 (6 yrs); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Kentucky — KY wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Kentucky, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Follows the federal CCPA: the lesser of 25% of disposable earnings OR the amount by which weekly disposable earnings exceed 30× the federal minimum wage. Kentucky DOES allow consumer wage garnishment (unlike TX, PA, NC, SC). No additional state cap beyond the federal 25% floor. The 25% limit does NOT apply to child-support orders, Chapter 13 bankruptcy orders, or state/federal tax debts (higher federal caps for support; taxes levied separately).

Authority: KRS 427.010(2); 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Kentucky — KY FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Kentucky consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); KRS 367.170 (Unlawful Acts) and debt-collection provisions added to KRS Ch. 367 by 2016 Ky. Acts (HB 558); 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq. (FDCPA)

Louisiana — Debt Collection Defense

Louisiana — No standalone state act — federal FDCPA only. Louisiana has no standalone 'mini-FDCPA'; consumers rely on the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. The Louisiana Consumer Credit Code (La. R.S. 9:3562) extends certain protections to original creditors as well as third-party collectors, and debt collectors must register with the Louisiana Office of Financial Institutions. Louisiana follows the civil-law tradition and uses the term 'prescription' rather than 'limitations.' The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in Louisiana; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq.

Debt Validation Rights

Louisiana — LA debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Louisiana consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq.

Statute of Limitations

Louisiana — LA statute of limitations. In Louisiana a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 10 years (open account: 3 years) under La. Civ. Code art. 3499 (written contracts/obligations, 10 yrs); La. R.S. 9:3562 (open accounts, 3 yrs); suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Open accounts (credit cards, medical bills) prescribe in 3 years; written contracts and promissory notes in 10 years. A partial payment or written acknowledgment can suspend/interrupt prescription.

Authority: La. Civ. Code art. 3499 (written contracts/obligations, 10 yrs); La. R.S. 9:3562 (open accounts, 3 yrs); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Louisiana — LA wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Louisiana, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Lesser of 25% of disposable earnings or the amount exceeding 30 times the federal minimum wage; Louisiana exempts 75% of disposable earnings (i.e., caps garnishment at 25%). Mirrors the federal CCPA and applies only after a court judgment. Child support up to 50%/60%; spousal support up to 60%. Federal student loans (15%) and taxes follow separate rules.

Authority: La. R.S. 13:3881; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Louisiana — LA FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Louisiana consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq.

Maine — Debt Collection Defense

Maine — Maine Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Maine's Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (Title 32, Ch. 109-A) regulates debt collectors (validation of debts, registration, civil liability up to $1,000 individual / $2,000 for debt buyers), while 9-A M.R.S. § 5-116 prohibits illegal, fraudulent, or unconscionable conduct in collecting consumer-credit debts. Both supply private remedies alongside the federal FDCPA.

Source: 32 M.R.S. § 11001 et seq. (debt-collection conduct also covered by 9-A M.R.S. § 5-116)

Debt Validation Rights

Maine — ME debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Maine consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt. Maine's Maine Fair Debt Collection Practices Act extends similar protections to original creditors collecting consumer debts.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); 32 M.R.S. § 11001 et seq. (debt-collection conduct also covered by 9-A M.R.S. § 5-116)

Statute of Limitations

Maine — ME statute of limitations. In Maine a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 6 years (open account: 6 years) under 14 M.R.S. § 752; suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Written contracts, open accounts, and oral contracts: 6 years (§ 752). Witnessed/attested promissory note: 20 years (§ 751). Revival requires an express written promise signed by the debtor (§ 755), giving debtors stronger protection than casual verbal acknowledgments.

Authority: 14 M.R.S. § 752; 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Maine — ME wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Maine, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: For judgments arising from consumer credit transactions, the lesser of 25% of disposable earnings OR the amount by which disposable earnings exceed 40 times the higher of the federal or state minimum wage, per workweek. Maine applies the federal 25% cap with a more generous 40x-minimum-wage floor. Federal CCPA higher caps still apply to child support, taxes, and student loans.

Authority: 9-A M.R.S. § 5-105; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Maine — ME FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Maine consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action. Maine's Maine Fair Debt Collection Practices Act provides parallel state-law remedies.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); 32 M.R.S. § 11001 et seq. (debt-collection conduct also covered by 9-A M.R.S. § 5-116)

Maryland — Debt Collection Defense

Maryland — Maryland Consumer Debt Collection Act (MCDCA). The MCDCA prohibits collectors (defined broadly to include creditors collecting their own debts) from force or violence, false threats to disclose credit information, contacting an employer before judgment, harassment/abuse, obscene language, and deceptive practices that violate FDCPA §§ 804-812 (§ 14-202). Violators are liable for actual and emotional-distress damages (§ 14-203). The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in Maryland; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: Md. Code [Com.], §§ 14-201 to 14-204

Debt Validation Rights

Maryland — MD debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Maryland consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); Md. Code [Com.], §§ 14-201 to 14-204

Statute of Limitations

Maryland — MD statute of limitations. In Maryland a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 3 years (open account: 3 years) under Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-101; suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Maryland has a general 3-year limitations period for all civil actions, including written contracts, oral contracts, and debts on account (§ 5-101). Exceptions: sale of goods under the UCC = 4 years (Com. Law § 2-725); contracts under seal = 12 years; a money judgment is enforceable for 12 years (§ 5-102).

Authority: Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-101; 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Maryland — MD wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Maryland, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: For consumer debts, a creditor may take no more than 25% of disposable wages; the protected amount is the greater of 75% of disposable wages or 30 times the Maryland minimum wage (currently $15/hr = $450/week) per pay period. The 25% ceiling matches the federal CCPA, but Maryland's higher state-minimum-wage floor protects more low-wage earners. Percentage cap (25%) equals federal CCPA; the added protection is the 30× Maryland-minimum-wage floor. Child support, taxes, and federal student loans follow separate higher federal limits.

Authority: Md. Code, Com. Law § 15-601.1; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Maryland — MD FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Maryland consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); Md. Code [Com.], §§ 14-201 to 14-204

Massachusetts — Debt Collection Defense

Massachusetts — Massachusetts Debt Collection Statute (M.G.L. c. 93, §§ 24–28 — licensing/regulation of debt collectors; substantive prohibition at M.G.L. c. 93, § 49; enforced via AG reg. 940 CMR 7.00). Massachusetts has no statute literally named 'Fair Debt Collection Practices Act.' Debt-collection conduct is regulated through M.G.L. c. 93, §§ 24–28 (collection-agency licensing and conduct) and c. 93, § 49 (broad ban on unfair/deceptive/unreasonable collection by any creditor), supplemented by the Attorney General's Debt Collection Regulations, 940 CMR 7.00, and the Division of Banks' 209 CMR 18.00. The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in Massachusetts; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: M.G.L. c. 93, §§ 24–28 (substantive rule: § 49)

Debt Validation Rights

Massachusetts — MA debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Massachusetts consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); M.G.L. c. 93, §§ 24–28 (substantive rule: § 49)

Statute of Limitations

Massachusetts — MA statute of limitations. In Massachusetts a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 6 years (open account: 6 years) under M.G.L. c. 260, § 1 (written) & § 2 (oral/implied); consumer & open-account debt 6 yrs; suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Massachusetts applies a 6-year limitation to consumer debt generally — written contracts (c. 260 § 1), oral contracts (§ 2), and open accounts/credit cards (c. 260 § 2; mass.gov confirms the SOL for consumer debt, including credit cards and oral/written contracts, is six years). A judgment is enforceable for 20 years (c. 260 § 20).

Authority: M.G.L. c. 260, § 1 (written) & § 2 (oral/implied); consumer & open-account debt 6 yrs; 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Massachusetts — MA wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Massachusetts, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Wage garnishment (called 'trustee process') is limited to the lesser of 15% of gross weekly wages OR disposable earnings minus 50× the greater of the federal or state minimum wage — effectively ~85% of gross wages exempt. Massachusetts is more protective than the federal CCPA 25% cap and computes the exemption on gross (not disposable) wages. Federal CCPA caps still apply to child support, taxes, and federal student loans.

Authority: M.G.L. c. 246, § 28; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Massachusetts — MA FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Massachusetts consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); M.G.L. c. 93, §§ 24–28 (substantive rule: § 49)

Michigan — Debt Collection Defense

Michigan — MI state debt collection overview. Michigan debt collection is governed primarily by the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), which applies to third-party debt collectors, plus state consumer-protection law (no standalone state FDCPA-style act). Debt buyers and original creditors are subject to these rules; consumers have rights to dispute and verify debts and to sue for violations.

Source: 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq. (FDCPA); 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); 15 U.S.C. § 1681 (FCRA); 12 C.F.R. § 1006 (Reg F); 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III garnishment)

Debt Validation Rights

Michigan — MI debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Michigan consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation)

Statute of Limitations

Michigan — MI statute of limitations. In Michigan a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within the statutory limitations period; suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. The period is set by state law.

Authority: MCL 600.5807(8) (6 years); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Michigan — MI wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Michigan, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state exemption law. Some states bar most consumer wage garnishment entirely.

Authority: MCL 600.401 et seq.; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Michigan — MI fdCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Michigan consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action)

Minnesota — Debt Collection Defense

Minnesota — Minnesota Collection Agency Act (debt-collection practices; Ch. 332 Collection, credit services, debt prorating). The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in Minnesota; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: Minn. Stat. § 332.31 et seq. (prohibited practices at § 332.37)

Debt Validation Rights

Minnesota — MN debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Minnesota consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); Minn. Stat. § 332.31 et seq. (prohibited practices at § 332.37)

Statute of Limitations

Minnesota — MN statute of limitations. In Minnesota a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 6 years (open account: 6 years) under Minn. Stat. § 541.05, subd. 1(1) (six-year limitation on contracts/obligations); consumer-debt SOL Minn. Stat. § 541.053; suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Minnesota applies a uniform 6-year period to written contracts, oral contracts, and open accounts alike (no separate shorter open-account window). § 541.053 sets 6 years for consumer debt and provides the period is NOT revived by a partial payment, bankruptcy discharge, or oral/written reaffirmation.

Authority: Minn. Stat. § 541.05, subd. 1(1) (six-year limitation on contracts/obligations); consumer-debt SOL Minn. Stat. § 541.053; 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Minnesota — MN wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Minnesota, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Graduated cap for ordinary consumer debts: ≤25% of disposable earnings if weekly income exceeds 80× the greater of state/federal min wage; 15% if 60–80×; 10% if 40–60×; earnings at/below 40× min wage are fully exempt. Child support follows federal 50–65% caps. Stricter than the federal 25% floor for lower-income earners (uses a 40× multiplier instead of federal 30×). The federal CCPA caps still apply to allowed categories: child support (50–65%), taxes, and federal student loans.

Authority: Minn. Stat. § 571.922; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Minnesota — MN FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Minnesota consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); Minn. Stat. § 332.31 et seq. (prohibited practices at § 332.37)

Mississippi — Debt Collection Defense

Mississippi — Mississippi Consumer Collection Practices Act. A state act that requires consumer collection agencies to register with the Mississippi Department of Banking & Consumer Finance, prohibits specified unfair collection practices, and gives a debtor a private right of action (actual damages or $500, whichever is greater, plus court costs and reasonable attorney's fees; possible punitive damages). It is supplementary to the federal FDCPA. NOTE: Some consumer guides describe Mississippi as relying primarily on the federal FDCPA; the registered-collection-agency framework above is the verifiable state layer. The exact codified Miss. Code Ann. section could not be confirmed from an authoritative source, so it is flagged uncertain. The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in Mississippi; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: Enacted 2002 Reg. Sess. ch. 531 (S.B. 2242); amended 2009 S.B. 3019, eff. July 1, 2009. Codified in Miss. Code Ann. (exact section number unverified)

Debt Validation Rights

Mississippi — MS debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Mississippi consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); Enacted 2002 Reg. Sess. ch. 531 (S.B. 2242); amended 2009 S.B. 3019, eff. July 1, 2009. Codified in Miss. Code Ann. (exact section number unverified)

Statute of Limitations

Mississippi — MS statute of limitations. In Mississippi a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 3 years (open account: 3 years) under Miss. Code Ann. § 15-1-29 (open account / unwritten contract, 3 yrs); § 15-1-49(1) (residual general contracts, 3 yrs); suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Most contract claims (written or open account) are 3 years. Sale of goods under the UCC (Miss. Code Ann. § 75-2-725) is 6 years; promissory notes 6 years (§ 75-3-118). A partial payment or signed acknowledgment can restart the period.

Authority: Miss. Code Ann. § 15-1-29 (open account / unwritten contract, 3 yrs); § 15-1-49(1) (residual general contracts, 3 yrs); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Mississippi — MS wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Mississippi, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Wages are completely exempt from a given garnishment writ for the first 30 days after service; thereafter the lesser of 25% of disposable earnings or the amount by which disposable earnings exceed 30 times the federal minimum wage. Mirrors the federal CCPA 25% cap but adds a 30-day grace period from service of the writ for ordinary consumer debts. Child support and state/local taxes follow higher federal caps; defaulted federal student loans up to 15% (administrative).

Authority: Miss. Code Ann. § 85-3-4; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Mississippi — MS FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Mississippi consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); Enacted 2002 Reg. Sess. ch. 531 (S.B. 2242); amended 2009 S.B. 3019, eff. July 1, 2009. Codified in Miss. Code Ann. (exact section number unverified)

Missouri — Debt Collection Defense

Missouri — No standalone state act — federal FDCPA only. The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in Missouri; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq.

Debt Validation Rights

Missouri — MO debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Missouri consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq.

Statute of Limitations

Missouri — MO statute of limitations. In Missouri a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 10 years (open account: 5 years) under Written contracts: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.110 (10 years); Open accounts / oral / other contracts: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.120 (5 years); suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Missouri splits the deadline: written contracts (incl. most promissory notes and signed loan/medical agreements) = 10 years; open accounts, oral contracts, and other non-written contracts = 5 years. Credit-card debt is litigated as either 5 or 10 years, and Missouri's borrowing statute may apply to out-of-state accounts.

Authority: Written contracts: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.110 (10 years); Open accounts / oral / other contracts: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.120 (5 years); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Missouri — MO wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Missouri, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Standard federal cap: the lesser of 25% of disposable earnings OR the amount by which weekly disposable earnings exceed 30× the federal minimum wage. A head of a family who is a Missouri resident: maximum 10% of disposable earnings. The 10% head-of-family rate is a stricter state protection (must generally be claimed/asserted). The federal CCPA 25% cap and higher caps for child support (50–65%), taxes, and federal student loans (15% administrative) still apply.

Authority: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 525.030; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Missouri — MO FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Missouri consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq.

Montana — Debt Collection Defense

Montana — Montana Consumer Protection Act / Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Act (state consumer-protection statute applied to debt collection; no standalone mini-FDCPA for original creditors). Montana has no standalone statute that mirrors the federal FDCPA for original creditors. Debt-collection conduct is addressed through (1) Montana's Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Act (MCA § 30-14-101 et seq.), which prohibits unfair or deceptive acts in trade or commerce — including deceptive collection tactics such as misrepresenting the amount owed or falsely threatening suit — and (2) state licensing of collection agencies and debt-management/debt-settlement providers (e.g., MCA § 30-14-2001 et seq. and § 30-14-2101 et seq.). The federal FDCPA remains the primary remedy against third-party collectors. Consumers do not have a state FDCPA cause of action against original creditors. The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in Montana; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: Mont. Code Ann. § 30-14-101 et seq. (Title 30, Chapter 14, Part 1)

Debt Validation Rights

Montana — MT debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Montana consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); Mont. Code Ann. § 30-14-101 et seq. (Title 30, Chapter 14, Part 1)

Statute of Limitations

Montana — MT statute of limitations. In Montana a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 8 years (open account: 5 years) under Mont. Code Ann. § 27-2-202 (written contracts 8 years; contracts/accounts not in writing 5 years); suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Written contracts (e.g., signed loan agreements, promissory notes) have an 8-year limit — one of the longest in the U.S. Open accounts, stated accounts, and oral contracts are 5 years; credit-card debt is often treated as a 5-year open account but may be pleaded as a written contract.

Authority: Mont. Code Ann. § 27-2-202 (written contracts 8 years; contracts/accounts not in writing 5 years); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Montana — MT wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Montana, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Montana tracks the federal CCPA Title III ceiling: wage garnishment on a consumer judgment may not exceed the lesser of 25% of weekly disposable earnings or the amount by which disposable earnings exceed 30 times the federal minimum hourly wage (~$217.50/week). This is EQUAL TO the federal 25% cap, not stricter. MCA § 25-13-614. Exceptions: support orders (50–65%, higher) are excluded from the 25% cap. Certain public benefits (Social Security, SSI, VA benefits, etc.) are exempt from garnishment.

Authority: Mont. Code Ann. § 25-13-614 (Earnings of judgment debtor); federal baseline 15 U.S.C. § 1673; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Montana — MT FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Montana consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); Mont. Code Ann. § 30-14-101 et seq. (Title 30, Chapter 14, Part 1)

Nebraska — Debt Collection Defense

Nebraska — Nebraska Collection Agency Act. The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in Nebraska; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 45-601 to 45-623

Debt Validation Rights

Nebraska — NE debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Nebraska consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 45-601 to 45-623

Statute of Limitations

Nebraska — NE statute of limitations. In Nebraska a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 5 years (open account: 4 years) under Neb. Rev. Stat. § 25-205 (written); § 25-206 (oral/open account); suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Written contracts 5 years; oral contracts and open accounts (e.g., credit cards) 4 years.

Authority: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 25-205 (written); § 25-206 (oral/open account); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Nebraska — NE wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Nebraska, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Lesser of 25% of disposable earnings, or 15% if the debtor is head of a family, or the amount by which weekly disposable earnings exceed 30x the federal minimum wage. Head-of-family cap is 15%. Federal CCPA 25% floor still applies to child support, taxes, and federal student loans.

Authority: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 25-1558; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Nebraska — NE FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Nebraska consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 45-601 to 45-623

Nevada — Debt Collection Defense

Nevada — Nevada Collection Agency Act (state debt-collection licensing/regulation; no standalone mini-FDCPA for original creditors). Nevada regulates debt collection through the Collection Agency Act (NRS Chapter 649), which licenses and governs collection agencies. NRS 649.370 provides that any violation of the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act is also a violation of Nevada law. There is no separate state act extending FDCPA-style protections to original creditors. The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in Nevada; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: NRS Chapter 649 (NRS 649.010 et seq.; NRS 649.370 incorporates the federal FDCPA)

Debt Validation Rights

Nevada — NV debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Nevada consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); NRS Chapter 649 (NRS 649.010 et seq.; NRS 649.370 incorporates the federal FDCPA)

Statute of Limitations

Nevada — NV statute of limitations. In Nevada a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 6 years (open account: 4 years) under NRS 11.190; suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Written contract (instrument in writing) 6 yrs (NRS 11.190(1)(b)); open account (goods sold/delivered) and oral/unwritten contract 4 yrs (NRS 11.190(2)(a),(c)).

Authority: NRS 11.190; 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Nevada — NV wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Nevada, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Lesser of 18% of disposable earnings (if gross weekly wage <= $770) or 25% (if > $770), OR the amount by which weekly disposable earnings exceed 50x the federal minimum wage ($362.50/wk), whichever is less. The 18% low-wage cap is stricter than the federal 25% cap. Federal CCPA 25% cap and the 50x floor still govern child support, bankruptcy orders, and state/federal tax debts (exempted from the 18%/25% caps per NRS 31.295(3)).

Authority: NRS 31.295; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Nevada — NV FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Nevada consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); NRS Chapter 649 (NRS 649.010 et seq.; NRS 649.370 incorporates the federal FDCPA)

New Hampshire — Debt Collection Defense

New Hampshire — New Hampshire Unfair, Deceptive or Unreasonable Collection Practices Act (UDUCPA). New Hampshire's UDUCPA prohibits debt collectors from using unfair, deceptive, or unreasonable practices (violence, obscene language, harassment, misrepresentation, improper workplace contact), requires disclosures, and gives a private right of action. Violations also constitute an unfair/deceptive act under the NH Consumer Protection Act (RSA 358-A). The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in New Hampshire; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: RSA 358-C

Debt Validation Rights

New Hampshire — NH debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a New Hampshire consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); RSA 358-C

Statute of Limitations

New Hampshire — NH statute of limitations. In New Hampshire a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 3 years (open account: 3 years) under RSA 508:4; suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Written contracts, oral contracts, and open accounts: 3 years (RSA 508:4). Contracts executed under seal: up to 20 years. Among the shortest SOL windows in the Northeast.

Authority: RSA 508:4; 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

New Hampshire — NH wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in New Hampshire, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Future wages are exempt from garnishment: only wages already earned when the garnishment order is served may be reached, and the first 50x the federal minimum wage per week (~$362.50) is protected (RSA 512:21). Ongoing consumer wage garnishment is effectively not permitted. New Hampshire provides among the strongest wage protections — post-service earnings are fully exempt, so recurring paycheck garnishment for ordinary consumer debt generally cannot continue. Federal CCPA 25% cap still applies to child support, taxes, and defaulted student loans (not barred by RSA 512:21).

Authority: RSA 512:21; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

New Hampshire — NH FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a New Hampshire consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); RSA 358-C

New Jersey — Debt Collection Defense

New Jersey — New Jersey Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (N.J.S.A. 45:18-1 et seq.). New Jersey's debt-collection statute is the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (N.J.S.A. 45:18-1 et seq.), which licenses and bonds collection agencies. Debt-collection misconduct is also actionable under the New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act (N.J.S.A. 56:8-1 et seq.). The federal FDCPA applies to third-party collectors. (Note: N.J.S.A. 56:11-46 is unrelated — it concerns credit-report security freezes.)

Source: N.J.S.A. 45:18-1 et seq.

Debt Validation Rights

New Jersey — NJ debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a New Jersey consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt. New Jersey's New Jersey Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (N.J.S.A. 45:18-1 et seq.) extends similar protections to original creditors collecting consumer debts.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); N.J.S.A. 45:18-1 et seq.

Statute of Limitations

New Jersey — NJ statute of limitations. In New Jersey a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 6 years (open account: 6 years) under N.J.S.A. 2A:14-1(a); suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. New Jersey allows 6 years for recovery upon a contractual claim or liability, express or implied, not under seal, or upon an account (N.J.S.A. 2A:14-1(a)) — covering written contracts, oral contracts, and open accounts alike. Judgments enforceable 20 years (N.J.S.A. 2A:14-5).

Authority: N.J.S.A. 2A:14-1(a); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

New Jersey — NJ wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in New Jersey, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Default cap for private creditors is 10% of gross weekly earnings, unless the debtor's income exceeds 250% of the federal poverty level (adjusted for family size), in which case the court may order a larger percentage. Withholding is the lowest of 10% of gross, 25% of disposable earnings, or disposable earnings over $217.50/week. New Jersey's 10%-of-gross cap is more protective than the federal 25% cap for most earners; if disposable earnings are $217.50/week or less, nothing is garnished. When the State of NJ is the creditor it may seek up to 25% of gross (N.J.S.A. 2A:17-56(b)). Child support, taxes, and federal student loans follow federal limits.

Authority: N.J.S.A. 2A:17-56; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

New Jersey — NJ FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a New Jersey consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action. New Jersey's New Jersey Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (N.J.S.A. 45:18-1 et seq.) provides parallel state-law remedies.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); N.J.S.A. 45:18-1 et seq.

New Mexico — Debt Collection Defense

New Mexico — New Mexico Collection Agency Regulatory Act (NMSA 1978, §§ 61-18A-1 et seq.); debt-collection conduct also covered by the Unfair Practices Act (NMSA 1978, §§ 57-12-1 et seq.). The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in New Mexico; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: NMSA 1978, §§ 61-18A-1 et seq. (and §§ 57-12-1 et seq.)

Debt Validation Rights

New Mexico — NM debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a New Mexico consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); NMSA 1978, §§ 61-18A-1 et seq. (and §§ 57-12-1 et seq.)

Statute of Limitations

New Mexico — NM statute of limitations. In New Mexico a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 6 years (open account: 4 years) under NMSA 1978, § 37-1-3 (written); § 37-1-4 (open account/oral); suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Written contracts / notes / bonds 6 yrs (§ 37-1-3); open accounts and oral/unwritten contracts 4 yrs (§ 37-1-4).

Authority: NMSA 1978, § 37-1-3 (written); § 37-1-4 (open account/oral); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

New Mexico — NM wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in New Mexico, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Exempt from garnishment is the GREATER of 75% of disposable earnings OR an amount each week equal to 40x the highest applicable minimum hourly wage (federal/state/local, whichever is highest). So at most 25% may be taken, and often less; New Mexico's 40x floor is more protective than the federal 30x floor. Federal CCPA 25% cap still applies to child support, taxes, and federal student loans. Child/spousal support orders: 50% of disposable earnings exempt (§ 35-12-7(A)).

Authority: NMSA 1978, § 35-12-7; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

New Mexico — NM FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a New Mexico consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); NMSA 1978, §§ 61-18A-1 et seq. (and §§ 57-12-1 et seq.)

New York — Debt Collection Defense

New York — New York debt collection regulation. New York regulates debt collection and prohibits deceptive or abusive practices (6 NYCRR Part 1).

Source: N.Y. Gen. Bus. Law § 601

Debt Validation Rights

New York — NY debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a New York consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); N.Y. Gen. Bus. Law § 600 et seq.

Statute of Limitations

New York — NY statute of limitations. In New York a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within the statutory limitations period; suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. The period is set by state law.

Authority: N.Y. CPLR § 213(2) (6 years); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

New York — NY wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in New York, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state exemption law. Some states bar most consumer wage garnishment entirely.

Authority: N.Y. CPLR § 5205; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

New York — NY fdCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a New York consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); N.Y. Gen. Bus. Law § 600 et seq.

North Carolina — Debt Collection Defense

North Carolina — NC state debt collection overview. North Carolina debt collection is governed primarily by the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), which applies to third-party debt collectors, plus the state North Carolina debt-collection statute. Debt buyers and original creditors are subject to these rules; consumers have rights to dispute and verify debts and to sue for violations.

Source: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 75-50 et seq.; 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq. (FDCPA); 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); 15 U.S.C. § 1681 (FCRA); 12 C.F.R. § 1006 (Reg F); 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III garnishment)

Debt Validation Rights

North Carolina — NC debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a North Carolina consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); N.C. Gen. Stat. § 75-50 et seq.

Statute of Limitations

North Carolina — NC statute of limitations. In North Carolina a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within the statutory limitations period; suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. The period is set by state law.

Authority: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 1-52(1) (3 years); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

North Carolina — NC wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in North Carolina, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state exemption law. Some states bar most consumer wage garnishment entirely.

Authority: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 1-362 (wages exempt); 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

North Carolina — NC fdCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a North Carolina consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); N.C. Gen. Stat. § 75-50 et seq.

North Dakota — Debt Collection Defense

North Dakota — North Dakota Collection Agency Act. The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in North Dakota; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: N.D. Cent. Code §§ 13-05-01 et seq. (Ch. 13-05)

Debt Validation Rights

North Dakota — ND debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a North Dakota consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); N.D. Cent. Code §§ 13-05-01 et seq. (Ch. 13-05)

Statute of Limitations

North Dakota — ND statute of limitations. In North Dakota a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 6 years (open account: 6 years) under N.D. Cent. Code § 28-01-16(1); suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Same 6-year period for written, oral, and open accounts. Promissory notes also 6 years (N.D. Cent. Code § 41-03-18).

Authority: N.D. Cent. Code § 28-01-16(1); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

North Dakota — ND wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in North Dakota, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Lesser of 25% of disposable weekly earnings or the amount by which disposable earnings exceed 40x the federal minimum wage; minus $20/week per dependent family member residing with the debtor. North Dakota's 40x multiplier (vs. federal 30x) protects more low-income wages than the federal floor. Federal CCPA 25% cap still applies to child support, taxes, and federal student loans.

Authority: N.D. Cent. Code § 32-09.1-03; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

North Dakota — ND FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a North Dakota consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); N.D. Cent. Code §§ 13-05-01 et seq. (Ch. 13-05)

Ohio — Debt Collection Defense

Ohio — OH state debt collection overview. Ohio debt collection is governed primarily by the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), which applies to third-party debt collectors, plus the state Ohio debt-collection statute. Debt buyers and original creditors are subject to these rules; consumers have rights to dispute and verify debts and to sue for violations.

Source: Ohio Rev. Code § 1349.18; 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq. (FDCPA); 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); 15 U.S.C. § 1681 (FCRA); 12 C.F.R. § 1006 (Reg F); 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III garnishment)

Debt Validation Rights

Ohio — OH debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Ohio consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); Ohio Rev. Code § 1349.18

Statute of Limitations

Ohio — OH statute of limitations. In Ohio a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within the statutory limitations period; suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. The period is set by state law.

Authority: Ohio Rev. Code § 2305.07 (8 years); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Ohio — OH wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Ohio, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state exemption law. Some states bar most consumer wage garnishment entirely.

Authority: Ohio Rev. Code § 2329.66; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Ohio — OH fdCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Ohio consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); Ohio Rev. Code § 1349.18

Oklahoma — Debt Collection Defense

Oklahoma — No standalone state act — federal FDCPA only. The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in Oklahoma; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq.

Debt Validation Rights

Oklahoma — OK debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Oklahoma consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq.

Statute of Limitations

Oklahoma — OK statute of limitations. In Oklahoma a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 5 years (open account: 3 years) under 12 O.S. § 95(A)(1) (written); 12 O.S. § 95(A)(2) (oral/open account); suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Written contracts 5 years; oral contracts and open accounts 3 years. Credit-card debt may be pleaded as either written (5 yrs) or open account (3 yrs) — contested; promissory notes 6 years (12A O.S. § 3-118).

Authority: 12 O.S. § 95(A)(1) (written); 12 O.S. § 95(A)(2) (oral/open account); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Oklahoma — OK wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Oklahoma, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Lesser of 25% of disposable earnings or the amount by which disposable earnings exceed 30x the federal minimum wage. Oklahoma has no head-of-household percentage reduction, but a debtor who supports dependents may claim an undue-hardship exemption. Oklahoma follows the federal 25% cap (no stricter state cap). Federal CCPA 25% floor still applies to child support, taxes, and student loans.

Authority: 14A O.S. § 5-105; 31 O.S. § 1.1 (undue-hardship exemption); 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Oklahoma — OK FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Oklahoma consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq.

Oregon — Debt Collection Defense

Oregon — Oregon Unlawful Debt Collection Practices Act.

Source: ORS 646.639

Debt Validation Rights

Oregon — OR debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Oregon consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt. Oregon's Oregon Unlawful Debt Collection Practices Act extends similar protections to original creditors collecting consumer debts.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); ORS 646.639

Statute of Limitations

Oregon — OR statute of limitations. In Oregon a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 6 years (open account: 6 years) under ORS 12.080; suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Written contract 6 yrs and open account/oral contract 6 yrs (ORS 12.080). Credit-card/open-account debt also 6 yrs. Separate 1-year limit to sue for unlawful collection practices (ORS 646.641).

Authority: ORS 12.080; 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Oregon — OR wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Oregon, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: 75% of disposable earnings exempt (max 25% garnished), with a minimum protected floor: net disposable earnings may not fall below $254/week ($509/2wk, $545/half-month, $1,090/month). Follows federal CCPA 25% cap, but Oregon's protected floor exceeds the federal 30x-minimum-wage floor. Federal CCPA 25% cap still applies to child support, state/federal taxes, and federal student loans (these are excluded from the 75% exemption in ORS 18.385(5)-(6)).

Authority: ORS 18.385; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Oregon — OR FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Oregon consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action. Oregon's Oregon Unlawful Debt Collection Practices Act provides parallel state-law remedies.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); ORS 646.639

Pennsylvania — Debt Collection Defense

Pennsylvania — PA state debt collection overview. Pennsylvania debt collection is governed primarily by the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), which applies to third-party debt collectors, plus state consumer-protection law (no standalone state FDCPA-style act). Debt buyers and original creditors are subject to these rules; consumers have rights to dispute and verify debts and to sue for violations.

Debt Validation Rights

Pennsylvania — PA debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Pennsylvania consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation)

Statute of Limitations

Pennsylvania — PA statute of limitations. In Pennsylvania a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within the statutory limitations period; suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. The period is set by state law.

Authority: 42 Pa.C.S. § 5525(a)(2) (4 years); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Pennsylvania — PA wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Pennsylvania, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state exemption law. Some states bar most consumer wage garnishment entirely.

Authority: 42 Pa.C.S. § 8121 (wages exempt from execution); 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Pennsylvania — PA fdCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Pennsylvania consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action)

Rhode Island — Debt Collection Defense

Rhode Island — Rhode Island Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Rhode Island's act defines unfair/deceptive acts or practices in debt collection, requires debt-collector registration with the director, and tracks the federal FDCPA model (harassment, false representations, unfair practices, validation of debts). Consumers may also use the Rhode Island Deceptive Trade Practices Act (Ch. 6-13.1).

Source: R.I. Gen. Laws § 19-14.9-1 et seq.

Debt Validation Rights

Rhode Island — RI debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Rhode Island consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt. Rhode Island's Rhode Island Fair Debt Collection Practices Act extends similar protections to original creditors collecting consumer debts.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); R.I. Gen. Laws § 19-14.9-1 et seq.

Statute of Limitations

Rhode Island — RI statute of limitations. In Rhode Island a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 10 years (open account: 10 years) under R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-1-13(a) (general civil actions, 10 years); suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Written, oral, and open accounts all carry a 10-year limitation under the general catch-all (§ 9-1-13(a)). Sale of goods (UCC): 4 years (§ 6A-2-725). Promissory notes: 6 years (§ 6A-3-118). Judgments: 20 years (§ 9-1-17). One of the longest SOL windows in the country.

Authority: R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-1-13(a) (general civil actions, 10 years); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Rhode Island — RI wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Rhode Island, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Up to 25% of disposable earnings (federal CCPA floor); Rhode Island adds wage exemptions under R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-26-4. Garnishment allowed after judgment via trustee process. Rhode Island is not a ban state; ordinary consumer creditors may garnish wages up to 25% after obtaining a judgment. Higher caps apply for child support (50-60%) and federal taxes/student loans follow their own rules.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (federal CCPA); R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-26-4; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Rhode Island — RI FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Rhode Island consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action. Rhode Island's Rhode Island Fair Debt Collection Practices Act provides parallel state-law remedies.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); R.I. Gen. Laws § 19-14.9-1 et seq.

South Carolina — Debt Collection Defense

South Carolina — South Carolina Unconscionable Debt Collection Practices Act (S.C. Code Ann. § 37-5-108, within the Consumer Protection Code, Title 37, Ch. 5); collection agencies also licensed under the Debt Collection Agency Licensing Act, § 37-12. South Carolina's debt-collection protections sit in the Consumer Protection Code. § 37-5-108 bans unconscionable collection conduct and gives consumers a cause of action for actual damages plus a $100–$1,000 penalty; § 37-5-104 broadly bars wage garnishment for consumer debts. Collection agencies are licensed under § 37-12 (enacted 2010).

Source: S.C. Code Ann. § 37-5-108

Debt Validation Rights

South Carolina — SC debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a South Carolina consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt. South Carolina's South Carolina Unconscionable Debt Collection Practices Act (S.C. Code Ann. § 37-5-108, within the Consumer Protection Code, Title 37, Ch. 5); collection agencies also licensed under the Debt Collection Agency Licensing Act, § 37-12 extends similar protections to original creditors collecting consumer debts.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); S.C. Code Ann. § 37-5-108

Statute of Limitations

South Carolina — SC statute of limitations. In South Carolina a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 3 years (open account: 3 years) under S.C. Code Ann. § 15-3-530(1); suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. South Carolina applies a uniform 3-year limitation to actions on a contract, obligation, or liability, express or implied (§ 15-3-530(1)), covering written contracts, oral contracts, and open accounts/credit cards. Exceptions: promissory notes 6 years (§ 36-3-118); mortgages/sealed instruments 20 years (§ 15-3-520). The period was reduced from 6 to 3 years in 1988.

Authority: S.C. Code Ann. § 15-3-530(1); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

South Carolina — SC wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in South Carolina, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Wages are exempt from garnishment for most consumer debts. A creditor may NOT attach unpaid earnings by garnishment for a debt arising from a consumer credit sale, consumer lease, consumer loan, or consumer rental-purchase agreement. South Carolina is one of the few states that largely prohibits consumer wage garnishment. Exceptions: taxes, child support/alimony, defaulted federal student loans, and out-of-state garnishment orders properly domesticated in SC. Federal CCPA caps still apply to those allowed categories.

Authority: S.C. Code Ann. § 37-5-104; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

South Carolina — SC FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a South Carolina consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action. South Carolina's South Carolina Unconscionable Debt Collection Practices Act (S.C. Code Ann. § 37-5-108, within the Consumer Protection Code, Title 37, Ch. 5); collection agencies also licensed under the Debt Collection Agency Licensing Act, § 37-12 provides parallel state-law remedies.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); S.C. Code Ann. § 37-5-108

South Dakota — Debt Collection Defense

South Dakota — South Dakota Consumer Protection Act / Deceptive Trade Practices and Consumer Protection (state consumer-protection statute applied to debt collection; no standalone mini-FDCPA for original creditors). South Dakota has no separate state Fair Debt Collection Practices Act and does not extend FDCPA-style liability to original creditors; consumers rely on the federal FDCPA for third-party collectors. Debt-collection misconduct is addressed through South Dakota's Deceptive Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Act (SDCL § 37-24-1 et seq.), which makes deceptive acts or practices (e.g., fraud, false pretenses, misrepresentation, or concealing material facts in a consumer transaction) unlawful and enforceable by the Attorney General, and through state licensing/regulation of collection agencies. There is no state cause of action against original creditors mirroring the FDCPA. The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in South Dakota; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: S.D. Codified Laws § 37-24-1 et seq. (Title 37, Chapter 24)

Debt Validation Rights

South Dakota — SD debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a South Dakota consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); S.D. Codified Laws § 37-24-1 et seq. (Title 37, Chapter 24)

Statute of Limitations

South Dakota — SD statute of limitations. In South Dakota a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 6 years (open account: 6 years) under S.D. Codified Laws § 15-2-13 (all contracts, express or implied, 6 years); suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. South Dakota uses a single 6-year period for all contracts whether written or oral ('express or implied'), so both written contracts and open accounts are 6 years. Credit-card, medical, auto, and personal-loan debts are all generally 6 years. Promissory notes follow the UCC (SDCL § 57A-3-118, generally 6 years).

Authority: S.D. Codified Laws § 15-2-13 (all contracts, express or implied, 6 years); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

South Dakota — SD wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in South Dakota, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: South Dakota is STRICTER than the federal CCPA Title III cap. Under SDCL § 21-18-51, consumer-debt wage garnishment may not exceed the lesser of 20% of weekly disposable earnings OR the amount by which disposable earnings exceed 40 times the federal minimum hourly wage (~$290/week), less $25/week per dependent family member. Because the federal cap is 25%, South Dakota's 20% limit protects more of the debtor's wages — i.e., it is stricter (more protective) than federal. Exceptions: the 20%/40× limit does NOT apply to court orders for child support or bankruptcy orders, which follow their own (higher) rules. State/federal taxes and student loans also have separate rules.

Authority: S.D. Codified Laws § 21-18-51 (Maximum amount subject to garnishment); federal baseline 15 U.S.C. § 1673; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

South Dakota — SD FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a South Dakota consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); S.D. Codified Laws § 37-24-1 et seq. (Title 37, Chapter 24)

Tennessee — Debt Collection Defense

Tennessee — Tennessee Collection Service Act. The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in Tennessee; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: Tenn. Code Ann. § 62-20-101 et seq.

Debt Validation Rights

Tennessee — TN debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Tennessee consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); Tenn. Code Ann. § 62-20-101 et seq.

Statute of Limitations

Tennessee — TN statute of limitations. In Tennessee a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 6 years (open account: 6 years) under Tenn. Code Ann. § 28-3-109(a)(3); open accounts also § 28-3-112; suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Written, oral, and open accounts are all 6 years. Sale of goods under the UCC (Tenn. Code Ann. § 47-2-725) is 4 years. A partial payment or signed written acknowledgment can restart the clock (Tenn. Code Ann. § 28-1-111).

Authority: Tenn. Code Ann. § 28-3-109(a)(3); open accounts also § 28-3-112; 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Tennessee — TN wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Tennessee, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Lesser of 25% of disposable earnings or the amount by which weekly disposable earnings exceed 30 times the federal minimum wage; plus an additional $2.50/week exemption for each dependent child under age 16 residing in Tennessee. Mirrors the federal CCPA 25% cap and adds a $2.50/week per dependent-child-under-16 exemption. Higher caps apply for child support (50%/60%, +5% if 12+ weeks in arrears), taxes, and defaulted federal student loans (15%, administrative).

Authority: Tenn. Code Ann. § 26-2-106; § 26-2-107 (dependent children); 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Tennessee — TN FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Tennessee consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); Tenn. Code Ann. § 62-20-101 et seq.

Texas — Debt Collection Defense

Texas — Texas Debt Collection Act. Texas prohibits deceptive, threatening, or abusive debt collection practices.

Source: Tex. Fin. Code § 392.001 (TDCA)

Debt Validation Rights

Texas — TX debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Texas consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); Tex. Fin. Code § 392.001 et seq.

Statute of Limitations

Texas — TX statute of limitations. In Texas a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within the statutory limitations period; suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. The period is set by state law.

Authority: Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 16.004 (4 years); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Texas — TX wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Texas, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state exemption law. Some states bar most consumer wage garnishment entirely.

Authority: Tex. Prop. Code § 42.001 et seq. (consumer wages exempt); 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Texas — TX fdCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Texas consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); Tex. Fin. Code § 392.001 et seq.

Utah — Debt Collection Defense

Utah — Utah Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (Utah Code Title 12, Chapter 1 — collection-agency registration and conduct statute; no standalone mini-FDCPA extending FDCPA-style protections to original creditors). Utah's Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (Title 12, Chapter 1) is a registration, licensing, and conduct statute for collection agencies. It requires collection agencies to register with the Utah Division of Corporations and Commercial Code and prohibits certain abusive practices, but it regulates third-party collectors/collection agencies rather than extending FDCPA-style liability to original creditors collecting their own debts. Consumers in Utah otherwise rely on the federal FDCPA (15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq.) for claims against third-party collectors. Utah does not have a state statute that independently mirrors the federal FDCPA for original creditors. The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in Utah; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: Utah Code § 12-1-13 et seq. (Title 12, Chapter 1, 'Collection Agencies' / Fair Debt Collection Practices Act)

Debt Validation Rights

Utah — UT debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Utah consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); Utah Code § 12-1-13 et seq. (Title 12, Chapter 1, 'Collection Agencies' / Fair Debt Collection Practices Act)

Statute of Limitations

Utah — UT statute of limitations. In Utah a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 6 years (open account: 4 years) under Utah Code § 78B-2-309 (written contracts, 6 years); § 78B-2-307 (contracts/open accounts not in writing, 4 years); suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Written contracts (instruments in writing) are 6 years; contracts/open accounts not founded on a written instrument are 4 years. Credit-card debt is classified as either a 6-year written contract (if a signed cardholder agreement is produced) or a 4-year open account; collectors often argue for the longer period.

Authority: Utah Code § 78B-2-309 (written contracts, 6 years); § 78B-2-307 (contracts/open accounts not in writing, 4 years); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Utah — UT wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Utah, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Utah caps consumer-debt wage garnishment at the federal CCPA Title III ceiling: the lesser of 25% of weekly disposable earnings or the amount by which disposable earnings exceed 30 times the federal minimum hourly wage (about $217.50/week at $7.25/hr). This is EQUAL TO the federal 25% cap, not stricter. Utah Code § 70C-7-103 also limits education-loan judgments to 15% and, under § 70C-7-102, bars garnishment before a judgment is entered. Exceptions to the 25% cap: child support/spousal support (up to 50–65%), state and federal taxes, and federal student loans follow their own, often higher, withholding rules.

Authority: Utah Code § 70C-7-103 (and § 70C-7-102); federal baseline 15 U.S.C. § 1673; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Utah — UT FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Utah consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); Utah Code § 12-1-13 et seq. (Title 12, Chapter 1, 'Collection Agencies' / Fair Debt Collection Practices Act)

Vermont — Debt Collection Defense

Vermont — No standalone state act — federal FDCPA only. Vermont does not have its own FDCPA-style statute. Third-party collectors are governed by the federal FDCPA; the Vermont Consumer Protection Act (9 V.S.A. § 2453, 'unfair or deceptive acts or practices in commerce are hereby declared unlawful') can supply additional state-law remedies, and collectors must be licensed by the VT Dept. of Financial Regulation. The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in Vermont; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq.

Debt Validation Rights

Vermont — VT debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Vermont consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq.

Statute of Limitations

Vermont — VT statute of limitations. In Vermont a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 6 years (open account: 6 years) under 12 V.S.A. § 511; suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Written contracts, oral contracts, and open accounts: 6 years (§ 511). Witnessed/attested promissory note: 14 years (§ 508). Revival of a time-barred debt by new written promise or part payment: § 461.

Authority: 12 V.S.A. § 511; 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Vermont — VT wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Vermont, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Up to 25% of disposable earnings or the amount exceeding 30x the federal minimum wage (federal CCPA floor). Vermont adds no stricter state percentage cap. Vermont follows the federal CCPA wage-garnishment limit and does not impose a stricter state cap for consumer debt. Child support (50-60%) and federal taxes/student loans follow separate, higher rules.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (federal CCPA); Vermont applies federal floor; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Vermont — VT FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Vermont consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq.

Virginia — Debt Collection Defense

Virginia — Virginia Consumer Protection Act; consumer debt collection also addressed by Va. Code § 18.2-213 (Virginia has no standalone comprehensive FDCPA-type act; federal FDCPA applies). Virginia has no comprehensive state fair-debt-collection act like the federal FDCPA. Consumer debt collection is addressed under the Virginia Consumer Protection Act (which prohibits deceptive/unconscionable practices, Va. Code § 59.1-200) and a narrow criminal statute, Va. Code § 18.2-213, which makes it a misdemeanor to use papers simulating warrants, process, writs, or court notices to collect a debt. Consumers primarily rely on the federal FDCPA (15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq.). The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in Virginia; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: Va. Code § 59.1-196 et seq. (see also Va. Code § 18.2-213)

Debt Validation Rights

Virginia — VA debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Virginia consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); Va. Code § 59.1-196 et seq. (see also Va. Code § 18.2-213)

Statute of Limitations

Virginia — VA statute of limitations. In Virginia a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 5 years (open account: 3 years) under Va. Code § 8.01-246; suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Written/signed contracts: 5 years (§ 8.01-246(2)). Open accounts, oral/unwritten contracts, and implied contracts: 3 years (§ 8.01-246(4)). Sale of goods under the UCC: 4 years. A money judgment is enforceable 10 years, renewable to 20 (§ 8.01-251).

Authority: Va. Code § 8.01-246; 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Virginia — VA wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Virginia, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: For ordinary consumer debts, garnishment is capped at the lesser of 25% of disposable earnings or the amount by which disposable earnings exceed 40 times the applicable minimum wage (federal or Virginia minimum wage, whichever is greater). Virginia's higher state minimum wage makes the protected floor more generous than the federal floor. The 25% ceiling effectively mirrors the federal CCPA. The percentage cap equals the federal CCPA 25% ceiling; the added protection is Virginia's higher state-minimum-wage floor. Stricter federal rules still apply to child support, taxes, and federal student loans.

Authority: Va. Code § 34-29; 16 VAC 15-21-20; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Virginia — VA FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Virginia consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); Va. Code § 59.1-196 et seq. (see also Va. Code § 18.2-213)

Washington — Debt Collection Defense

Washington — Washington Collection Agency Act (RCW 19.16.100 et seq.); debt-collection conduct also reachable under the Consumer Protection Act, RCW 19.86. Washington regulates debt collectors through the Collection Agency Act (RCW 19.16.100 et seq.), requiring licensing and prohibiting unfair collection practices; collection conduct is also actionable under the Washington Consumer Protection Act (RCW 19.86). The federal FDCPA applies to third-party collectors. The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in Washington; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: RCW 19.16.100 et seq.

Debt Validation Rights

Washington — WA debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Washington consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); RCW 19.16.100 et seq.

Statute of Limitations

Washington — WA statute of limitations. In Washington a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 6 years (open account: 6 years) under RCW 4.16.040(1) (written) & (2) (account receivable/open account); oral contracts RCW 4.16.080(3) = 3 yrs; suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Written contracts and account receivables / open accounts have a 6-year limitation (RCW 4.16.040); oral contracts are 3 years (RCW 4.16.080(3)). Mutual open accounts accrue from the last item (RCW 4.16.150).

Authority: RCW 4.16.040(1) (written) & (2) (account receivable/open account); oral contracts RCW 4.16.080(3) = 3 yrs; 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Washington — WA wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Washington, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: For consumer debt: garnishment limited to the lesser of 20% of disposable weekly earnings OR weekly disposable earnings less 35× the STATE minimum hourly wage (RCW 6.27.150(4)). General (non-consumer) judgments: lesser of 25% of disposable earnings or disposable earnings less 35× federal minimum wage (RCW 6.27.150(1)). Washington's consumer-debt cap (20% of disposable earnings / 35× state minimum wage) is stricter than the federal 25% cap. Child/spousal support, taxes, and federal student loans follow their own (often higher) federal limits.

Authority: RCW 6.27.150; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Washington — WA FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Washington consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); RCW 19.16.100 et seq.

West Virginia — Debt Collection Defense

West Virginia — West Virginia Consumer Credit and Protection Act (WVCCPA). The WVCCPA prohibits debt collectors from using threats or coercion, oppression or abuse, unreasonable publication, fraudulent or deceptive representations, and unfair or unconscionable means to collect consumer debts (§§ 46A-2-124 to 46A-2-128). It applies to both third-party collectors and creditors collecting their own debts, and gives consumers a private right of action for damages. The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in West Virginia; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: W. Va. Code § 46A-1-101 et seq. (debt collection provisions at §§ 46A-2-122 to 46A-2-129a)

Debt Validation Rights

West Virginia — WV debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a West Virginia consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); W. Va. Code § 46A-1-101 et seq. (debt collection provisions at §§ 46A-2-122 to 46A-2-129a)

Statute of Limitations

West Virginia — WV statute of limitations. In West Virginia a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 10 years (open account: 5 years) under W. Va. Code § 55-2-6; suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Written contracts (including contracts under seal) and signed writings: 10 years (§ 55-2-6). Oral/implied contracts and open accounts (including credit cards/revolving accounts): 5 years. NOTE: Legislation was introduced in 2025-2026 (SB 124, SB 27) to shorten these to 5 years (written) and 2 years (oral/open), but as of the search date those bills had not been enacted; current law remains 10 years (written) / 5 years (oral & open account).

Authority: W. Va. Code § 55-2-6; 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

West Virginia — WV wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in West Virginia, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: For judgments arising from consumer credit sales or consumer loans, garnishment is capped at the lesser of 20% of disposable earnings or the amount by which disposable earnings exceed 30 times the federal minimum hourly wage. This 20% ceiling is stricter than the federal CCPA 25% cap. West Virginia's 20% cap is more protective than the federal 25%. Child support, taxes, and federal student loans follow their own higher federal limits.

Authority: W. Va. Code § 38-5A-3 (see also § 46A-2-130); 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

West Virginia — WV FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a West Virginia consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); W. Va. Code § 46A-1-101 et seq. (debt collection provisions at §§ 46A-2-122 to 46A-2-129a)

Wisconsin — Debt Collection Defense

Wisconsin — Wisconsin Consumer Act — Debt Collection (Ch. 427). The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in Wisconsin; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: Wis. Stat. ch. 427 (§ 427.101 et seq.; prohibited practices at § 427.104)

Debt Validation Rights

Wisconsin — WI debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Wisconsin consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); Wis. Stat. ch. 427 (§ 427.101 et seq.; prohibited practices at § 427.104)

Statute of Limitations

Wisconsin — WI statute of limitations. In Wisconsin a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 6 years (open account: 6 years) under Wis. Stat. § 893.43 (action on any contract, obligation, or liability, express or implied — 6 years); suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Wisconsin applies a uniform 6-year limit to 'any contract, obligation, or liability, express or implied,' so written, oral, and open accounts are all 6 years. (Carve-outs: motor-vehicle insurance claims 3 years; court judgments enforceable 20 years.)

Authority: Wis. Stat. § 893.43 (action on any contract, obligation, or liability, express or implied — 6 years); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Wisconsin — WI wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Wisconsin, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: 20% of disposable earnings (80% exempt). If household income is at/below the federal poverty line, 100% of earnings are exempt; if 20% would push the household below poverty, garnishment is limited to the amount above the poverty line. More protective than the federal 25% cap. The federal CCPA caps still apply to allowed categories: child support (50–65%), taxes, and federal student loans (15% administrative). Payday-loan debt cannot be wage-garnished in Wisconsin.

Authority: Wis. Stat. § 812.34 (earnings garnishment procedure at § 812.35); 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Wisconsin — WI FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Wisconsin consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); Wis. Stat. ch. 427 (§ 427.101 et seq.; prohibited practices at § 427.104)

Wyoming — Debt Collection Defense

Wyoming — Wyoming Collection Agency Act (state debt-collection licensing/regulation; no standalone mini-FDCPA for original creditors). Wyoming has no comprehensive state debt-collection practices act and does not extend FDCPA-style liability to original creditors; consumers rely on the federal FDCPA for third-party collectors. Debt collection is regulated through the Wyoming Collection Agency Act (W.S. § 33-11-101 through 33-11-116), which requires collection agencies, debt collectors, and solicitors to be licensed by the Wyoming Collection Agency Board (with a surety bond and resident manager), and makes unlicensed operation a misdemeanor. Wyoming also adopted the text of the federal FDCPA as it existed on October 13, 2006 into state rules (031-4 Wyo. Code R. §§ 4-6), and provides additional consumer protection through the Wyoming Consumer Protection Act (W.S. § 40-12-101) and the Uniform Consumer Credit Code (W.S. § 40-14-101). The federal FDCPA is the primary framework for third-party debt collectors in Wyoming; this state does not extend FDCPA-style protections to original creditors.

Source: Wyo. Stat. § 33-11-101 et seq. (Title 33, Chapter 11)

Debt Validation Rights

Wyoming — WY debt validation rights. Under the FDCPA, a Wyoming consumer has the right to receive a validation notice within five days of a collector's first contact and to dispute the debt in writing within 30 days; during the dispute the collector must cease collection until it verifies the debt.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692g (validation); Wyo. Stat. § 33-11-101 et seq. (Title 33, Chapter 11)

Statute of Limitations

Wyoming — WY statute of limitations. In Wyoming a creditor's lawsuit to collect a written contract debt must be filed within 10 years (open account: 8 years) under Wyo. Stat. § 1-3-105(a)(i) (written contracts 10 years); § 1-3-105(a)(ii)(A) (contracts not in writing 8 years); suing on a time-barred debt can itself violate the FDCPA. Wyoming has no separate 'open account' limitations category. Revolving/open accounts and oral contracts are generally treated under the 8-year 'contract not in writing' period (§ 1-3-105(a)(ii)(A)); written contracts run 10 years. A partial payment or signed written acknowledgment can restart the period under W.S. § 1-3-119.

Authority: Wyo. Stat. § 1-3-105(a)(i) (written contracts 10 years); § 1-3-105(a)(ii)(A) (contracts not in writing 8 years); 15 U.S.C. § 1692k

Wage Garnishment Limits

Wyoming — WY wage garnishment limits. For consumer debts in Wyoming, wage garnishment is limited by federal Title III of the CCPA (25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30x federal minimum wage, whichever is less) and, where stricter, by state law: Wyoming follows the federal CCPA Title III cap and does not impose a stricter state limit: consumer-debt wage garnishment is limited to the lesser of 25% of weekly disposable earnings or the amount by which disposable earnings exceed 30 times the federal minimum hourly wage (~$217.50/week). This is EQUAL TO the federal 25% cap. Wyoming's garnishment procedures are in W.S. § 1-15-401 et seq.; the earnings cap itself tracks 15 U.S.C. § 1673. Exceptions: child support, state/federal taxes, and federal student loans follow their own higher withholding rules. Employers may not discharge an employee for a single garnishment.

Authority: Wyo. Stat. § 1-15-401 et seq. (garnishment procedure); earnings cap per federal CCPA, 15 U.S.C. § 1673; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 (CCPA Title III)

FDCPA Violation Remedies

Wyoming — WY FDCPA violation remedies. If a debt collector violates the FDCPA against a Wyoming consumer (harassment, false statements, unfair practices, or suing on time-barred debt), the consumer may sue for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney fees under the statute's private right of action.

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 1692k (private right of action); Wyo. Stat. § 33-11-101 et seq. (Title 33, Chapter 11)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA)?

The FDCPA (15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq.) is a federal law that limits how third-party debt collectors may contact and pursue consumers, prohibiting harassment, false statements, and unfair practices.

How do I validate a debt a collector claims I owe?

Under 15 U.S.C. § 1692g, within five days of first contact a collector must send a written validation notice. You have 30 days to dispute the debt in writing; the collector must stop collection until it verifies the debt.

What is the statute of limitations on debt collection?

It varies by state and by type of debt (written contract, open account, oral). Many states allow 3–6 years for written contracts; a few allow longer. After the limit expires, a collector can still attempt collection but cannot sue.

Can a debt collector garnish my wages?

Federal law (CCPA Title III, 15 U.S.C. § 1673) caps garnishment at the lesser of 25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30 times the federal minimum wage. Many states are stricter; some heavily restrict wage garnishment for consumer debt.

What are my remedies if a debt collector violates the law?

Under 15 U.S.C. § 1692k you may sue within one year for actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney's fees. Many states add parallel remedies through their own statutes.

Does my state add protections beyond the federal FDCPA?

Some states (e.g., California, New York, Oregon) have mini-FDCPA laws extending protections to original creditors. Others regulate collection through licensing/consumer-protection acts. See the state-by-state guide below for specifics.