Everything you need to know about utility debt in Iowa: the statute of limitations is 5 years, garnishment is capped at 25% of disposable earnings, and 2 state-specific protections apply to your case.
5 years
Statute of limitations (open/revolving accounts)
$800
Avg. utility debt in US
25% of disposable earnings
Garnishment limit
In Iowa, utility debt falls under open/revolving accounts with a statute of limitations of 5 years. Once the SOL expires, collectors cannot sue you for the debt — but they can still call. If you make a payment or acknowledge the debt in writing, the SOL clock may restart under Iowa law.
Credit/Open
5 years
Written
10 years
Oral
5 years
These strategies combine federal FDCPA protections with Iowa-specific laws like the Iowa Debt Collection Practices Act.
In Iowa, the SOL for this debt type is 5 years — check if your debt has expired.
If a collector wins a judgment for utility debt in Iowa, garnishment is limited to: 25% of disposable earnings.
Iowa Debt Collection Practices Act
File complaints: AG Consumer Protection
These Iowa-specific protections apply to your utility debt case:
All Iowa Debt Laws
SOL, garnishment, protections for all debt types
Utility Debt Dispute Guide
Strategies, laws, and tips nationwide
DebtShield generates AI dispute letters that cite Iowa law (Iowa Debt Collection Practices Act) and federal FDCPA protections. Built for Iowa residents with utility debt.
Generate Iowa Utility Debt Dispute LetterAuto-cites Iowa statutes + FDCPA + State PUC regulations | From $9.99/mo