Pennsylvania is one of the most protective states in the nation when it comes to wage garnishment. The state completely prohibits wage garnishment for consumer debts, including credit card debt, medical bills, and personal loans. Wages can only be garnished in Pennsylvania for child support, federal and state taxes, student loans, and court-ordered restitution. This makes Pennsylvania an exceptionally favorable state for workers facing consumer debt issues.
Key Pennsylvania garnishment facts
State abbreviation
PA
Consumer debt limit
0% of disposable earnings, subject to the 0x minimum wage test
Child support limit
50% if supporting another family, 60% otherwise, plus 5% for arrears
Federal student loans
15% administrative garnishment cap
State minimum wage
$7.25
Minimum wage source used in calculator
Federal minimum wage baseline
Head of household protection
No additional protection listed
Statute reference
Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes Title 42, §8127
Additional notes
Pennsylvania does NOT allow wage garnishment for consumer debts. Wages can only be garnished for child support, taxes, student loans, and restitution. This makes PA one of the most protective states in the nation.
Tax levy note: Pennsylvania Department of Revenue can levy wages for state tax debts (10% of gross wages).
Key protections and reminders
• No wage garnishment allowed for consumer debts
• Only child support, taxes, student loans, and restitution can trigger garnishment
• One of the most protective states in the nation
• Bank accounts may still be subject to levy for consumer debts