CAN MY SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS BE GARNISHED TO PAY CHILD SUPPORT OR ALIMONY IN FLORIDA
Social Security and Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) can be garnished to pay a child support obligation or alimony. Social Security Income (SSI) cannot be garnished to pay a child support or alimony obligation because it is exempt by the IRS.
Most forms of income will be used to determine your income for child support and alimony purposes, including the following:
- All employment-related income (salary, commissions, bonuses, overtime, tips, etc.); and
- Disability benefits; and
- Unemployment compensation; and
- Social Security; and
- Alimony; and
- Pension and annuity income.
The above list is not all-inclusive, and other forms of income can be used to determine child support and are subject to garnishment.
HOW MUCH CAN THE GOVERNMENT GARNISH FOR CHILD SUPPORT OR ALIMONY
If you are delinquent in your child support or alimony obligation, your income can be garnished up to 65% until your debt is satisfied. If you are not delinquent in your obligation, your income can be garnished up to 50%.
There are some forms of debt that are exempt from social security benefit garnishments, such as medical debt, credit card debt, and unsecured personal loans.
CAN I NEGOTIATE A REDUCED GARNISHMENT AMOUNT
It is possible to negotiate a reduced garnishment percentage, which will leave you with more disposable income.
If you need strong, experienced counsel to represent your interests, please feel free to call or e-mail The Fuller Firm, LLC. A free phone or videoconference consultation will be scheduled. After a thorough analysis of your matter, I will answer your questions and advise you regarding the best way to proceed.