State Debt Laws
Florida Debt Collection Laws
Garnishment limits, exemptions, and consumer protections specific to Florida
Florida (FL) - At a Glance
| State Consumer Protection Law | Florida Consumer Collection Practices Act (FCCPA) |
| Source | Fla. Stat. ยง 559.55 et seq. |
| Covers Original Creditors? | YES - covers original creditors too |
| Max Wage Garnishment | 0% of disposable earnings (federal minimum; may be lower) |
| Bank Levy Exemption | Head of household: wages exempt for 6 months |
| Homestead Exemption | Unlimited (primary residence) |
Key Protections in Florida
- FCCPA covers original creditors (beyond FDCPA)
- Wages exempt from garnishment for head of household
- UNLIMITED homestead exemption - home is untouchable
- No calls at unusual times or places
- Private right of action: $1,000 per violation
Wage Garnishment in Florida
After a court judgment, creditors in Florida can garnish up to 0% of your disposable earnings (earnings after legally required deductions). This is the federal cap - Florida follows federal law on this limit.
Exempt from garnishment: Federal benefits (Social Security, SSI, VA benefits) cannot be garnished by private creditors regardless of state law.
Note: Some or all wages may be exempt from garnishment in Florida. Consult a local attorney.
File a Complaint in Florida
If a debt collector violates the FDCPA or Florida Consumer Collection Practices Act (FCCPA):
- File with the Florida Attorney General
- File with the CFPB
- Consult a consumer attorney (FDCPA violations = attorney fees paid by collector)