What Is Wage Garnishment?
Wage garnishment is a legal process where a court orders an employer to withhold a portion of an employee’s earnings to pay off a debt. Common types of garnishment include unpaid taxes, child support, student loans, and consumer debts.
Federal law limits how much can be taken from your paycheck. Understanding these limits helps you protect your income and plan your finances.
How Federal Garnishment Limits Work in 2026
Under federal law (Consumer Credit Protection Act), the maximum garnishment for most consumer debts is:
- 25% of disposable earnings, OR
- The amount by which weekly disposable earnings exceed 30 times the federal minimum wage
Whichever amount is lower applies.
Special Rules for Child Support and Taxes
Different garnishment limits apply for certain debts:
- Child Support: Up to 50–60% of disposable earnings
- Federal Student Loans: Up to 15%
- Unpaid Federal Taxes: Based on IRS formula
These categories may exceed the standard 25% rule.
How to Calculate Disposable Income
Disposable income is calculated as:
Gross Pay – Mandatory Deductions = Disposable Earnings
Mandatory deductions typically include:
- Federal income tax
- State income tax
- Social Security
- Medicare
- State unemployment insurance
Example Garnishment Calculation
If your weekly disposable income is $800:
- 25% of $800 = $200
- 30× federal minimum wage threshold (example calculation)
The lower of these two amounts is your maximum garnishment.
Can Employers Fire You for Garnishment?
Federal law generally prohibits employers from terminating an employee due to a single wage garnishment order. However, multiple garnishments may create complications depending on state law.
Why Use a Wage Garnishment Calculator?
Manual calculations can be confusing. Our Wage Garnishment Calculator helps you:
- Estimate disposable income
- Apply federal garnishment limits
- Understand maximum withholding amounts
- Plan monthly budgeting adjustments
When to Seek Legal Advice
If your garnishment seems excessive or violates federal limits, you may have legal options. Consulting an employment or consumer protection attorney can clarify your rights.
Final Thoughts
Wage garnishment can significantly impact financial stability. Knowing your legal protections empowers you to make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary financial stress.
Use this calculator as an educational estimate. Actual garnishment amounts may vary based on court orders and state-specific regulations.