Wage Garnishment in North Dakota

North Dakota: Federal Baseline in an Energy Economy

North Dakota follows the federal baseline CCPA limits under N.D. Cent. Code § 32-09.1-03, providing no additional state-level garnishment protections. The standard rules apply: 25% of disposable earnings, with $217.50/week protected.

The Energy Economy Context

North Dakota’s energy-sector-driven economy produces average wages that are higher than many other $7.25-minimum-wage states. This creates an unusual dynamic: the $217.50 protected floor represents a smaller share of the typical worker’s earnings, but the 25% cap still exposes a significant dollar amount. A worker earning $1,500/week in North Dakota’s oil fields could lose up to $375/week to garnishment — while still having their first $217.50 protected.

For minimum-wage workers, however, the protection is the bare federal minimum. A North Dakota minimum-wage worker earns $290/week, with $217.50 protected from garnishment.

Northern Plains Comparison

North Dakota’s protections are standard for the Northern Plains. South Dakota follows the federal baseline with a higher minimum wage ($11.50). Montana also follows the baseline with a $10.55 minimum wage. Minnesota uses a 40× multiplier — the strongest protection among North Dakota’s neighbors. Wyoming to the southwest follows the federal baseline with a $7.25 minimum wage. North Dakota and Wyoming form the least-protective tier in the region.

Asset Protections

North Dakota offers a $100,000 homestead exemption — relatively generous compared to many states — providing meaningful asset protection for homeowners. But for wage earners specifically, the state offers no enhancement of the CCPA floor. Workers facing garnishment in North Dakota should be aware that the state provides no procedural or substantive shield beyond what federal law requires.

A Practical Note

North Dakota’s garnishment rules treat all workers the same regardless of family status — there is no head-of-household enhancement. A single worker and a family of four supporting a household on the same income receive identical protection under North Dakota law.

Statute: N.D. Cent. Code § 32-09.1-03; 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.