Wage Garnishment in Massachusetts
How much of your paycheck can be garnished in Massachusetts and how to claim an exemption.
Short answer: Stricter than federal law. The greater of 85% of gross wages or 50 times the higher of the federal or Massachusetts minimum hourly wage, for each week, is exempt from attachment (trustee process). M.G.L. c. 246, § 28; c. 235, § 34 (Fifteenth)
| Wage garnishment limit | Stricter than federal law. The greater of 85% of gross wages or 50 times the higher of the federal or Massachusetts minimum hourly wage, for each week, is exempt from attachment (trustee process). The limit does not apply to support orders, where federal limits apply. Exemption is measured from gross wages, not disposable earnings. |
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| Claiming an exemption | The bank exemption is applied automatically: a bank served with a trustee summons must hold only money above $2,500, and the summons must describe the exemption. Small claims judges may order payment in installments and can stay execution. |
More Massachusetts debt & collections
- Statute of Limitations on Debt in Massachusetts
- How to Respond to a Debt Collection Lawsuit in Massachusetts
- What Creditors Can't Take in Massachusetts
- All Massachusetts debt & collections rules
FAQ
How much of my wages can be garnished in Massachusetts?
Stricter than federal law. The greater of 85% of gross wages or 50 times the higher of the federal or Massachusetts minimum hourly wage, for each week, is exempt from attachment (trustee process). The limit does not apply to support orders, where federal limits apply.
How do I stop a garnishment or claim an exemption in Massachusetts?
The bank exemption is applied automatically: a bank served with a trustee summons must hold only money above $2,500, and the summons must describe the exemption. Small claims judges may order payment in installments and can stay execution.
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.