Can a Collection Agency Garnish Wages in PA?
Sponsored by Pittsburgh PA Consumer Attorney Greg Artim
This is the most asked question that I get at my office. The answer is a resounding NO! A collection agency cannot garnish your wages in Pennsylvania, period, even though they may threaten to do so. In Pennsylvania, wages may be garnished only under very limited circumstances, such as for spousal support or payment of back rent in a landlord-tenant case.
However, a collection agency can garnish your bank account IF they have obtained a judgment against you in a court of law. Keep in mind that if your wages are deposited into a checking or savings account, they could be subject to garnishment at that point (Again, though, only if they have obtained a judgment against you) as they are no longer considered wages.
Contact our office at 412-823-8003 or toll free at 1-888-536-6644 for a free telephone consultation if you are being sued by a Collection Agency in Western Pennsylvania.