| Georgia at a glance | |
|---|---|
| Time limit to sue on card debt | 6 years for written contracts and 4 years for open accounts. |
| Deadline to answer a debt lawsuit | 30 days after service. |
| Wage garnishment | Georgia follows the federal limit: the lesser of 25% of disposable pay or the amount above 30 times the federal minimum wage. |
| Where to complain | Georgia Consumer Protection Division complaint |
How long creditors have to sue
6 years for written contracts and 4 years for open accounts. Reviving an expired debt generally requires a written acknowledgment. (O.C.G.A. §§ 9-3-24, 9-3-25, 9-3-110)
The time limit for suing is separate from credit reporting: most negative items can stay on your credit report for up to 7 years from when you first fell behind, regardless of state.
If you're sued in Georgia
Answer deadline: 30 days after service. Check your own summons for the exact date, because missing it usually means a default judgment.
Step-by-step help and common defenses are in our lawsuit and garnishment guide.
What's protected if there's a judgment
Your paycheck
Georgia follows the federal limit: the lesser of 25% of disposable pay or the amount above 30 times the federal minimum wage. (O.C.G.A. § 18-4-20)
Your bank account
There's no automatic dollar amount. You file a claim of exemption, and the court must schedule a prompt hearing. (Chatham County garnishment exemptions guide)
Everywhere in the US, Social Security, SSI and VA benefits are generally off-limits to private creditors, and banks must automatically protect two months of those benefits when they're direct-deposited.
Debt collectors in Georgia
Georgia relies mainly on federal law and its Fair Business Practices Act to police collectors. Federal rules still apply on top of state law. See your rights and free dispute letters.
Debt settlement and debt relief companies
Georgia's Debt Adjustment Act caps fees at 7.5% of each monthly payment and requires companies to file audits and insurance with the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division. Under federal law, debt relief companies that sell by phone can't charge fees until they've settled at least one of your debts. Read how settlement works.
Medical debt
Georgia hasn't enacted a medical debt credit reporting ban as of our last review. More in our medical bills guide.
Where to complain or check a company
Sources
Laws and dollar amounts change, and court rules vary by county. This page is general information, not legal advice. For your situation, contact a legal aid office or a Georgia consumer attorney.