State Debt Laws
Texas Debt Collection Laws
Garnishment limits, exemptions, and consumer protections specific to Texas
Texas (TX) - At a Glance
| State Consumer Protection Law | Texas Debt Collection Act (TDCA) |
| Source | Tex. Fin. Code ยง 392.001 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 | Current wages fully exempt |
| Homestead Exemption | Unlimited (primary residence) |
Key Protections in Texas
- TDCA covers ORIGINAL creditors (beyond FDCPA)
- Texas BANS all wage garnishment for consumer debts
- UNLIMITED homestead exemption - home is fully protected
- Current wages 100% exempt from levy
- Strong debtor protections overall
Wage Garnishment in Texas
After a court judgment, creditors in Texas can garnish up to 0% of your disposable earnings (earnings after legally required deductions). This is the federal cap - Texas 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 Texas. Consult a local attorney.
File a Complaint in Texas
If a debt collector violates the FDCPA or Texas Debt Collection Act (TDCA):
- File with the Texas Attorney General
- File with the CFPB
- Consult a consumer attorney (FDCPA violations = attorney fees paid by collector)