Wage Garnishment in Florida
Wage garnishment is a court-ordered process where an employer withholds a portion of a debtor's earnings and pays it to the creditor. Florida's head of household exemption can provide 100% wage protection.
Garnishment Limits
- Maximum: 25% of disposable earnings, or earnings exceeding 30× federal minimum wage ($217.50/week), whichever is less
- Below $217.50/week: No garnishment allowed
- Head of household: 100% exempt (no garnishment)
- Child support: Special rules allow higher percentages (50-65%)
- Tax garnishment: IRS can take larger amounts
Process
- Court issues writ of continuing garnishment
- Writ served on employer
- Employer withholds and remits to creditor
- Continues until judgment satisfied or court order
Employment Protection
Federal law prohibits termination for a single garnishment. No protection for multiple garnishments. Employees can file with the U.S. Department of Labor for violations.
Related Terms
- Exempt Property — Wage exemptions
- Encumbrance — Judgment creating garnishment
- Contract — Employment agreements
Barnes Walker Litigation
Barnes Walker's attorneys enforce wage garnishments for creditors and defend head of household exemptions for Florida employees. Request a legal inquiry for assistance.
Reviewed by the attorneys at Barnes Walker, Goethe, Shea & Robinson, PLLC