Wage Garnishment Guide: How Much of Your Salary Can Be Seized?

Wage garnishment is one of the most effective enforcement methods in debt collection. However, the law sets limits to protect the debtor’s basic living needs.

What is Wage Garnishment?

It is the seizure of a portion of the debtor’s salary through enforcement proceedings.

How Much Can Be Seized?

• Up to 1/4 of the salary can be seized
• Multiple garnishments are processed in order
• The debtor may consent to higher deductions

Alimony Exception

Alimony debts have priority and may exceed the 1/4 limit.

Additional Payments

• Bonuses and premiums may be seized partially
• Severance payments may be fully seized

Employer Responsibility

• Must respond within 7 days
• Failure to deduct results in liability

Pension Garnishment

• Generally protected
• Exceptions: alimony and public debts

FAQ

How to object to wage garnishment?

The debtor can apply to the enforcement office or court.

What happens if the employer does not deduct?

The employer becomes directly liable for the unpaid amount.

Legal support is recommended to avoid rights loss in wage garnishment processes.