Protect Social Security and retirement from garnishment
Some income has special protection from garnishment — but federal debts have special rules.
Education only. Not legal advice, not a determination of your rights, and not a recommendation to take any action. Facts, contracts, deadlines, and current law can change the outcome. For your situation, talk to a qualified professional.
The general rule
For ordinary private debts (like a credit card), Social Security and many retirement benefits are usually protected from garnishment. But protection is not automatic — you may need to file a claim of exemption and prove the source of the funds.
Federal debts are different
Federal debts — unpaid taxes, federal student loans, and SBA/Treasury debts — can be collected by the government without a court order, including up to 15% of your disposable wages and offsets of tax refunds. Social Security can be offset for certain federal debts in limited circumstances.
What to do
- If your bank account was levied, file a claim of exemption right away and show the money is protected income.
- Keep records showing deposits are Social Security or retirement.
- For federal debts, contact the agency (IRS, Treasury, SBA) in writing.
- Never give your SSN or bank numbers to an unknown caller.
This is education only
Whether your specific income is protected depends on the debt type, your state, and the source of the funds. Talk to a legal aid office before you move, transfer, or spend protected money.
Official sources
- Treasury Fiscal Service — Debt Collection
- CFPB — Can my Social Security be garnished?
- Social Security Administration
Last reviewed 2026-10-12. Sentinel Answer · San Jose, California.