Getting collection calls can feel stressful, and many people worry most about one thing: can a debt collector take part of their paycheck? In Maryland, a collector can garnish your wages only if they sue you, win the case and get a judgment. Knowing the rules helps you understand what to expect.
How wage garnishment works in Maryland
Once a collector wins a judgment, Maryland law limits how much they can take. The law uses a formula to ensure you have enough money to live on. A collector can take the smaller of these two amounts:
- 25% of your disposable income – money left after taxes
- The amount left after protecting 30 times the Maryland minimum hourly wage for your pay period
The collector must follow the rule that lets you keep more money. Some income stays off-limits no matter what. Social Security, disability benefits and child support remain exempt from wage garnishment.
Protect your bank account
Even though the law protects these benefits, the rules change once the money enters your bank account. If the funds come through direct deposit, the bank automatically protects the last two months of those payments. If you have extra protected funds or receive the money by check, you must file a claim of exemption to keep those funds safe.
What to do if a collector tries to garnish your wages
If a collector sues you, file an answer right away to prevent the court from entering a default judgment. If a garnishment starts, you can file a motion to ensure the collector uses the most protective limit. This includes the 30-times-minimum-wage rule.
Protect your paycheck
Wage garnishment can feel scary, but Maryland gives you tools to defend yourself. You can review your pay stubs, court papers and bank account activity. You can also file forms with the court to claim exemptions or challenge mistakes if something looks wrong. When you understand how garnishment works, you can take steps that protect your income.