Can I Be Fired If My Wages Are Garnished?

Garnishment of wages is a legal process in which a portion of an individual's earnings are withheld by an employer for payment of a debt. The court must order the garnishment and the employer must abide by the court order. An example of garnishment of wages would be to pay child support.

An employer may not fire an employee that has a court ordered garnishment of wages under the Title III of the Consumer Credit Protection Act. Not only does the Title III of the Consumer Credit Protection Act protect the employee from being terminated from his present position but it also limits the amount of money that can be garnished in one week.  If you have been fired for your wages being garnished speak to a wrongful termination attorney or employment lawyer about filing a legal claim against your employer.

On the other hand, an employee can be terminated after a second or more garnishments have been ordered on the employee.

Under Title III of the Consumer Credit Protection Act, all person earnings are included such as salaries, commissions, wages, bonuses, and the income from a retirement program. Tips are not included in the garnishment process.

If you believe you have had your wages garnished unfairly or have been terminated from your job due to garnishments, you should talk with an employee rights lawyer or wrongful termination attorney in your state. He/she will be able to give you advice as well as provide you with information regarding the options you have and whether you have the right to sue your employer for damages that occurred.