On behalf of Debt Advisors, S.C.
What is Wage Garnishment?
Wage garnishment is a legal remedy that allows a creditor to take money directly from a bank account or you paycheck. If the creditor sues you to collect a debt and wins a court judgment against you, the creditor can ask the court for an order to garnish your salary, bank account, or other assets.
A creditor can obtain a court order requiring your employer to withhold some of your salary and pay it to the creditor. In addition, a creditor can ask the court for an order instructing your bank to turn over funds you have in your bank account.
Social Security Benefits Protection
Social Security benefits have been exempt, in most cases, from garnishment. The problem has been that banks would freeze accounts when they received a garnishment order and not check to see if Social Security checks had been deposited.
The U.S. Treasury Department has issued a new rule that forces banks to check whether Social Security or other federal benefit payments have been automatically deposited into the account. If so, the bank must protect two months’ worth of those payments. This is to protect the elderly, who may have very limited financial resources and may not understand the process to challenge a garnishment of their social security benefits.
Questions? Speak with an Attorney
Because garnishment is a statutory remedy (created by the legislature) it is very technical, with formal requirements to create a garnishment and to challenge one. If you have questions about protecting your social security payments or any wage garnishment, speak with an attorney experienced with consumer protections and collections law.
Understanding the complexities of bankruptcy laws and how they can impact your financial situation is crucial. At Debt Advisors, we have a team of experienced attorneys who specialize in bankruptcy laws and can guide you through the process. For those in the Kenosha area, our Kenosha office is well-equipped to provide localized support and expertise.Whether you’re concerned about the impact of COVID-19 on bankruptcy laws or need assistance with the Wisconsin Chapter 7 means test, our team has the expertise to help you navigate these complex legal waters.
Learn about bankruptcy protections, types of bankruptcy, how to get started, what to expect, and who to trust. Filing bankruptcy is the ONLY way to completely eliminate debt. If bankruptcy is right for you, it offers powerful protections that cannot be achieved through alternative solutions such as hardship relief, loans, or debt settlement.
