Pennsylvania
Last reviewed: 2026-09-15
Pennsylvania offers consumers several important protections, including a strong limit on wage garnishment. The information below is general and was last reviewed on the date shown — verify with the cited sources before relying on it.
State laws and court rules change. The information below is general and was last reviewed on the date shown. Verify any deadline or rule with the official source cited, or consult an attorney licensed in Pennsylvania.
Debt-Collection Lawsuit Basics
In Pennsylvania, a debt-collection lawsuit begins with a Complaint served on you. You must file a written Answer within 20 days of being served in most cases. If you do not answer, the creditor can get a default judgment. Small claims (Magisterial District Court) have different procedures than the Court of Common Pleas.
Sources
- Pa.R.C.P. 1026 (20-day answer deadline)
- Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System self-help resources
Wage Garnishment
Pennsylvania generally limits wage garnishment to 10% of net wages per pay period for most consumer debts, and prohibits garnishment for many types of debt altogether. Some debts (like taxes, child support, and student loans) have different rules. This is one of the strongest wage-protection laws in the country.
Sources
- 43 P.S. § 463 (Wage Garnishment Law)
- Pa.R.C.P. 3101 et seq.
Bank-Account Restraints and Exempt Funds
After a judgment, a creditor may attempt to attach funds in your bank account. Certain funds are generally exempt, including Social Security, SSDI, SSI, VA benefits, and many public assistance payments. You may need to claim exemptions to protect these funds. Act quickly — there can be short deadlines.
Sources
- 42 Pa.C.S. § 8123 (exempt income)
- Federal 31 C.F.R. § 212 (exempt benefits)
Statutes of Limitation
In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for most written contracts (including many credit card debts) is generally 4 years. A time-barred debt cannot be collected through a lawsuit, but collectors may still try to collect it. Do not make a payment or promise to pay without understanding that it could restart the clock.
Sources
- 42 Pa.C.S. § 5525 (4-year limitation for contracts)
Official Resources
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Information is general in nature and may not apply to your specific situation. Laws vary by state and change over time. Nothing on this platform should be used as a substitute for the advice of a competent attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.