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Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Orange County

How to Handle Wage Garnishments

How Can I Reverse a Wage Garnishment?

Having your wages garnished means less money in your pocket each month. In extreme cases, this can result in a situation where it is difficult or impossible for you to meet your basic living expenses. If you fall into this category, don't panic. Instead, file a Claim of Exemption form with the court. You'll be given the chance to explain your situation to a judge and to prove your monthly income and living expenses. If the judge determines that your monthly income does not support the wage garnishment, he can set it aside.

The only other way to eliminate a wage garnishment is to satisfy the judgement against you. This can happen in one of two ways:

  • You can pay the creditor the entire amount you owe in one lump sum.

  • Over time, the wage garnishment will pay off the judgement.

In either case, it's up to you to request documentation from the creditor that shows the judgement has been satisfied. This is important because it gives you the proof you need to show that you are no longer legally obligated to the creditor.


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