Mississippi Wage Garnishment for Medical Bills: What You Need to Know

In Mississippi, wages can be garnished for unpaid medical bills, but strict legal processes and protections apply.

Required Steps Before Garnishment

1. Judgment: Creditor must sue and obtain a court judgment.
2. Notice: Debtor receives notice of garnishment intent.
3. Opportunity to contest: Debtor can file objections/exemptions with the court.

Garnishment Limits (Miss. Code Ann. § 85-3-4)

• Non-support debts (medical bills): Up to 25% of disposable earnings (after mandatory deductions: taxes, Social Security).
• Support debts (child support/alimony): Up to 50% of disposable earnings.

Exemptions

• Federal: Head-of-household exemption protects portion of wages.
• State: Mississippi exempts certain earnings necessary for support; also protects Social Security, veterans' benefits, workers' comp.

Practical Advice

• Respond to lawsuits—default judgments enable garnishment.
• Negotiate payment plans before judgment.
• Claim exemptions promptly using court forms.
• Consult a consumer law attorney or legal aid for personalized guidance.

Garnishment laws are complex; this is general information, not legal advice.