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Are my state benefits exempt from garnishment?

Protections for state benefits payments come from state laws and varies by state.

If you have received a notice related to a garnishment order, review the notice carefully for information about how to protect certain funds from garnishment. You may also consider contacting the creditor or the court issuing the order. You may want to seek legal assistance or contact your state’s Consumer Protection Agency for more information.

Last Reviewed: April 2021

Please note: The terms "bank" and "banks" used in these answers generally refer to national banks, federal savings associations, and federal branches or agencies of foreign banking organizations that are regulated by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). Find out if the OCC regulates your bank. Information provided on HelpWithMyBank.gov should not be construed as legal advice or a legal opinion of the OCC.

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