Medical Bill Garnishment: Chapter 13 Options in Washington

Medical bill garnishment in Washington

Sometimes people experience unexpected medical expenses that they cannot afford at the time they need medical treatment. If you don’t pay your medical bills, then frequently the bills get turned over to a collection agency. If the collection agency does not think that you are making a “good enough” effort to pay “fast enough,” then they hire a lawyer to file a lawsuit for the unpaid medical bills and garnish your wages.

How wage-garnishment limits are calculated

In Washington, wage-garnishment limits depend on the type of debt and statutory exemptions. The calculation uses disposable earnings, meaning earnings after deductions required by law, rather than a blanket percentage of gross wages. Sources: RCW 6.27.010(2); RCW 6.27.150. Have your pay records and garnishment papers reviewed to determine what may be withheld.

Chapter 13 and medical bill garnishment

Filing Chapter 13 generally triggers an automatic stay that stops most collection activity, including many wage garnishments. Exceptions apply, and the stay may be limited in some cases. Source: 11 U.S.C. § 362(a)–(d). We should review the debt, any prior bankruptcy filings and the collection timeline before advising you about the protection available.

For additional background, read the U.S. Courts guide to Chapter 13 bankruptcy and our bankruptcy consultation overview.

Discuss your options in a free consultation

Call Now. I offer a free initial consultation to find out your options. Give me a call and we will figure out a solution to your financial situation.

Over the past 34 years, the Law Offices of Christopher A. Benson has helped over 3,000 of Washington clients take control of their financial situation.

We can review whether bankruptcy may help stop your garnishment and address your debts through a repayment plan. Sources: 11 U.S.C. § 362(a)–(d); U.S. Courts: Chapter 13 bankruptcy. If money has already been garnished, recovery may be possible in some cases, depending on the timing of the transfers, applicable exemptions and other legal requirements. A refund is not automatic or guaranteed. Sources: 11 U.S.C. § 547(b)–(c), (e)–(g); 11 U.S.C. § 522(g)–(i); 11 U.S.C. § 550(a).

But you have to act quickly–call (253) 815-6940 for your free consultation, or email us today. Evening and weekend appointments available.