Wage garnishment
Is money being taken from your paycheck? Let's stop it
When your wages are garnished, every paycheck goes less far. The good news: with bankruptcy it can often be stopped quickly. Call us today.
✔ Bilingual attorney · ✔ 20+ years of experience · ✔ Chicago & all suburbs
What is a wage garnishment?
A wage garnishment happens when a creditor wins a lawsuit and gets an order for your employer to take money out of every paycheck before you ever see it. It's legal — but it can also be stopped.
How we stop it
The moment we file your bankruptcy, the automatic stay forces the creditor to stop the garnishment. For many families, that means the very next paycheck comes in full. Depending on your case, we can also:
- Stop the garnishment with a Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy
- Wipe out the balance that caused the garnishment, in many cases
- Recover, in some cases, part of the money already taken
- Give you a clear plan to start over
Don't wait for more paychecks to go by. The sooner you call, the more we can help.
Frequently asked questions
How do I stop a wage garnishment in Illinois?
The fastest way is usually to file bankruptcy: the automatic stay stops the garnishment almost immediately. In your free consultation we tell you what's best for you.
How much can they take from my paycheck?
In Illinois, they can generally take up to 15% of your gross pay, or the amount above a protected minimum, whichever is less. Even so, that money can make a big difference for your family.
Can they freeze my bank account?
Yes, a creditor with a judgment can also freeze your account. Act fast — the sooner you call, the more we can do.