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Could I receive a garnishment order from someone other than my bank?

Yes. You could receive a garnishment notice from your creditor or the court granting the order. The notice may tell you what to do if you think money in your bank account is exempt from garnishment and give you information about exemptions that may apply.

Remember, however, that the court and your creditor may not know if money in your bank account is exempt unless you tell them, because information about your bank account is private.

If you think there is money in your account that is exempt from garnishment even if it is not automatically protected, you should follow the instructions in the notice about how to inform the court or creditor of this. Make sure you meet the deadline specified, if any, in the notice. If you do not have a copy of the notice or garnishment order, contact the creditor or the court.

Last Reviewed: April 2021

Please note: The terms "bank" and "banks" used in these answers generally refer to national banks, federal savings associations, and federal branches or agencies of foreign banking organizations that are regulated by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). Find out if the OCC regulates your bank. Information provided on HelpWithMyBank.gov should not be construed as legal advice or a legal opinion of the OCC.

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