Wage Garnishment in Missouri
How much of your paycheck can be garnished in Missouri and how to claim an exemption.
Short answer: No more than the lesser of 25% of weekly disposable earnings or the amount above 30 times the federal minimum wage. For a Missouri resident who is head of a family, the limit is 10%. RSMo 525.030.2, .5
| Wage garnishment limit | No more than the lesser of 25% of weekly disposable earnings or the amount above 30 times the federal minimum wage. For a Missouri resident who is head of a family, the limit is 10%. Limits do not apply to support orders, Chapter 13 bankruptcy orders, or tax debts. An employer may not fire a worker over a garnishment for one debt. Source: RSMo 525.030.2, .5 |
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| Claiming an exemption | Within 3 days after levying, the sheriff or other officer must tell the debtor about the levy and the exemptions available. The debtor claims an exemption by filing a verified request with the levying officer within 20 days after notice of the levy. If the officer does not act within 5 days, or a party disagrees with the decision, any party may ask the court to review it; the court must hold a hearing within 30 days. Source: RSMo 513.445 |
More Missouri debt & collections
- Statute of Limitations on Debt in Missouri
- How to Respond to a Debt Collection Lawsuit in Missouri
- What Creditors Can't Take in Missouri
- All Missouri debt & collections rules
FAQ
How much of my wages can be garnished in Missouri?
No more than the lesser of 25% of weekly disposable earnings or the amount above 30 times the federal minimum wage. For a Missouri resident who is head of a family, the limit is 10%. Limits do not apply to support orders, Chapter 13 bankruptcy orders, or tax debts. An employer may not fire a worker over a garnishment for one debt.
How do I stop a garnishment or claim an exemption in Missouri?
Within 3 days after levying, the sheriff or other officer must tell the debtor about the levy and the exemptions available. The debtor claims an exemption by filing a verified request with the levying officer within 20 days after notice of the levy. If the officer does not act within 5 days, or a party disagrees with the decision, any party may ask the court to review it; the court must hold a hearing within 30 days.
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.