Wage Garnishment in Minnesota

Minnesota: 40× State Multiplier with Debt Fairness Act Reforms

Minnesota enhances the federal baseline with a 40× exemption multiplier on the greater of the state or federal minimum wage under Minn. Stat. § 571.922, protecting $456.40 per week ($11.41 × 40) — more than double the federal $217.50 floor. The Debt Fairness Act (eff. April 1, 2025) further strengthened consumer protections in the state.

The Minnesota Formula

Minnesota follows the CCPA framework with the enhanced multiplier:

• Cap: 25% of disposable earnings
• Exemption floor: 40× the greater of state or federal minimum wage = $456.40/week protected

For a worker earning $550/week in disposable earnings:

• Minnesota: min(25% cap = $137.50, $550 − $456.40 = $93.60) = $93.60 garnishable
• Federal: min(25% cap = $137.50, $550 − $217.50 = $332.50) = $137.50 garnishable

The 40× state-MW floor saves this worker $43.90/week — over $2,280/year.

2025 Debt Fairness Act

Minnesota’s Debt Fairness Act (effective April 2025) introduced reforms including updated garnishment forms, enhanced notice requirements, and stronger protections against aggressive debt collection. The core 40× formula was retained but made more accessible to workers through improved exemption-claiming procedures.

Regional Comparison

Minnesota’s 40× state-MW multiplier puts it ahead of most neighboring states. North Dakota, South Dakota, and Iowa all follow the bare federal baseline. Wisconsin uses a poverty-guideline-based exemption with an 80% disposable floor. Illinois uses a 15% gross cap with 45× state MW exemption.

Minimum Wage Context

Minnesota’s $11.41 state minimum wage (CPI-adjusted annually) applies to large employers, with higher rates in the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro. The state uses its own minimum wage for the exemption calculation, meaning the protected floor rises automatically with each CPI adjustment.

Statute: Minn. Stat. § 571.922; 15 U.S.C. § 1673 — Official source

This calculator is for consumer debt garnishment only. Not legal advice. Rules vary by debt type (student loans, child support, taxes). Verify with official sources before making any financial or legal decisions.