Wage Garnishment in Georgia
How much of your paycheck can be garnished in Georgia and how to claim an exemption.
Short answer: The lesser of 25% of weekly disposable earnings, or the amount by which weekly disposable earnings exceed $217.50 (30 hours at $7.25). For judgments on private student loans, the cap is 15% instead of 25%. O.C.G.A. § 18-4-5(a)
| Wage garnishment limit | The lesser of 25% of weekly disposable earnings, or the amount by which weekly disposable earnings exceed $217.50 (30 hours at $7.25). For judgments on private student loans, the cap is 15% instead of 25%. Public mirror (FindLaw). Source: O.C.G.A. § 18-4-5(a) |
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| Claiming an exemption | The garnishee (bank or employer) must mail the debtor a Notice of Right Against Garnishment and a Defendant's Claim Form. To claim money as exempt, the debtor files the claim form with the court clerk before judgment is entered against the garnishee, a disbursement order is issued, or the money is paid out, whichever comes first. The debtor serves copies on the creditor and garnishee. Creditors usually can obtain the money if no claim or traverse is filed within 20 days after the garnishee's answer. Public mirror (FindLaw). Claim form text is in § 18-4-82. |
Where to get help in Georgia
More Georgia debt & collections
- Statute of Limitations on Debt in Georgia
- How to Respond to a Debt Collection Lawsuit in Georgia
- What Creditors Can't Take in Georgia
- All Georgia debt & collections rules
FAQ
How much of my wages can be garnished in Georgia?
The lesser of 25% of weekly disposable earnings, or the amount by which weekly disposable earnings exceed $217.50 (30 hours at $7.25). For judgments on private student loans, the cap is 15% instead of 25%.
How do I stop a garnishment or claim an exemption in Georgia?
The garnishee (bank or employer) must mail the debtor a Notice of Right Against Garnishment and a Defendant's Claim Form. To claim money as exempt, the debtor files the claim form with the court clerk before judgment is entered against the garnishee, a disbursement order is issued, or the money is paid out, whichever comes first. The debtor serves copies on the creditor and garnishee. Creditors usually can obtain the money if no claim or traverse is filed within 20 days after the garnishee's answer.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.