2006-10-31 01:29:26 · 5 answers · asked by barbara m 1 in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
Well yes
Until recently it was NO. But in 2001 a new law made allowances for Garnishments.
However!! Only Federal Debts are allowed to be garnished.. so Student loans, Unpaid taxes, VA costs etc. anything Federal , even VA home loans...
Basically the Government can take from your Social Security to pay money you owe them..
Private individuals or other non governement folks CAN NOT garnish Social Security, even under the new law.
The first 750.00 of your check is off limits and then they can only take 15% of whatever is left AFTER that 750.00
You may be able to get around this IF you are the only income earner and have dependants living with you ... and the garnishment would put your income below the poverty line...
Id call Social Security Directly first,..then Call a county agency a financial worker...
Good Luck
Wismom
2006-10-31 01:41:33 · answer #1 · answered by Wismom 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I don't think it is legal at all to garnish a ss check, regardless the age or what they are garnishing wages for. Check with your local Department for Families and Children or the Employment Office, any government office can answer this but of course you dont want to ask the ss office.
2006-10-31 09:44:11 · answer #2 · answered by shortnsweet362000 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, since 2001 the Fed CAN attach your SS check (not SSI). Especially if you owe IRS. They can take up to 15% of your check. BUT, you can get the IRS and treasury to cancel the attachment due to hardship. Check with IRS and SS for forms.
2006-10-31 10:01:10 · answer #3 · answered by Gunny T 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes. They will garnish for VA Hospital Bills, etc, if you don't qualify for an exemption.
2006-10-31 09:30:49 · answer #4 · answered by MEL T 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You cannot have a SS check garnished.............so whoever says you can are full of it!
2006-10-31 09:32:45 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋