<prompt> Human: Do I have to pay off the debt I have in collections or can I just wait after seven years and its disappeared? Im just wondering because someone told me I could just leave all the debt I have in collections and legally the collection agency cant garnish your wages. The only people who can garnish wages is if its a federal loan like a student loan or if you have court fees to pay. Thanks guys! Also how do I post this in the debt section of personal finance?Edit: I have 2,000 in collections from a credit card. 2,000 in medical bills and like 500 on a stupid Macys card. Does the amount you have in collections determine whether or not theyll sue you?  <response>: Of course they can garnish your wages. Stop listening to whichever irresponsible idiot told you that and pay your debts. 