| Ohio at a glance | |
|---|---|
| Time limit to sue on card debt | 6 years for consumer transaction debts like credit cards. |
| Deadline to answer a debt lawsuit | 28 days after service. |
| Wage garnishment | Ohio follows the federal limit: the lesser of 25% of disposable pay or the amount above 30 times the federal minimum wage can be taken. |
| Where to complain | Ohio Attorney General complaint |
How long creditors have to sue
6 years for consumer transaction debts like credit cards. The clock starts 30 days after the later of your last charge or last payment, so a new payment can push the deadline back. (Ohio Rev. Code § 2305.07)
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 Ohio
Answer deadline: 28 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
Ohio follows the federal limit: the lesser of 25% of disposable pay or the amount above 30 times the federal minimum wage can be taken. (Ohio Rev. Code § 2329.66)
Your bank account
There's no automatic dollar amount; you must claim exemptions. The cash and bank deposit exemption is $625 (adjusted periodically). (Ohio Rev. Code § 2329.66(A)(3))
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 Ohio
Ohio doesn't have its own version of the FDCPA or a collector license, but its Consumer Sales Practices Act can apply to collection agencies. Federal rules still apply on top of state law. See your rights and free dispute letters.
Debt settlement and debt relief companies
Ohio's Debt Adjusters Act caps fees and requires companies to file annual audits with the Attorney General. 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
Ohio 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 Ohio consumer attorney.