Wage Garnishment in Virginia
How much of your paycheck can be garnished in Virginia 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 40 times the federal or Virginia minimum hourly wage, whichever is greater. Va. Code 34-29(A)
| Wage garnishment limit | The lesser of 25% of weekly disposable earnings or the amount by which weekly disposable earnings exceed 40 times the federal or Virginia minimum hourly wage, whichever is greater. Because Virginia's minimum wage is higher than the federal one, this protects more than the federal 30-times floor. A new version of 34-29 takes effect July 1, 2027; the ordinary-debt limit in subsection A is the same in both versions. Source: Va. Code 34-29(A) |
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| Claiming an exemption | Every garnishment summons (and notice of lien on a bank account) must come with a notice of exemptions and a Request for Hearing/claim for exemption form. Fill out the form and deliver or mail it to the clerk's office of the court; you have a right to a hearing within seven business days after filing the claim. Source: Va. Code 8.01-512.4 |
Where to get help in Virginia
More Virginia debt & collections
- Statute of Limitations on Debt in Virginia
- How to Respond to a Debt Collection Lawsuit in Virginia
- What Creditors Can't Take in Virginia
- Medical Debt Protections in Virginia
- All Virginia debt & collections rules
FAQ
How much of my wages can be garnished in Virginia?
The lesser of 25% of weekly disposable earnings or the amount by which weekly disposable earnings exceed 40 times the federal or Virginia minimum hourly wage, whichever is greater. Because Virginia's minimum wage is higher than the federal one, this protects more than the federal 30-times floor.
How do I stop a garnishment or claim an exemption in Virginia?
Every garnishment summons (and notice of lien on a bank account) must come with a notice of exemptions and a Request for Hearing/claim for exemption form. Fill out the form and deliver or mail it to the clerk's office of the court; you have a right to a hearing within seven business days after filing the claim.
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.