VT H0099

Requires earned wage access service providers to obtain a license from the Commissioner before operating in Vermont, with a $1,000 license fee, $1,000 application fee, and $1,200 annual renewal fee

Mandates providers offer a basic level of service at no cost to consumers, while allowing optional fees only for expedited delivery or subscription services with clear disclosure requirements

Prohibits providers from collecting unpaid proceeds through courts, arbitration, or debt collectors, limiting collection to a maximum of four payroll deduction or electronic transfer attempts

Bans providers from charging penalties for non-repayment, reporting consumers to credit agencies, selling biometric or geolocation data without consent, or conditioning services on credit scores

Takes effect July 1, 2025, with licensing requirements beginning January 1, 2026, and a grace period allowing existing providers to continue operating through December 31, 2025 if they apply for a license