1. What is Alabama Wage Garnishment?

In Alabama, wage garnishment is limited to the lesser of 25% of disposable earnings or the amount by which disposable earnings exceed 30 times the federal minimum wage. This calculator helps determine the maximum amount that can be garnished under Alabama law.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Alabama garnishment formula:

Where:

• \( Disposable \) — Disposable earnings after required deductions
• \( Exemption_{AL} \) — Alabama exemption amount (30 × federal minimum wage)

Explanation: The formula ensures garnishment doesn't exceed 25% of disposable income or reduce income below the protected exemption level.

3. Importance of Garnishment Calculation

Details: Proper garnishment calculation ensures compliance with Alabama law while balancing creditor rights and debtor protection against excessive wage withholding.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter disposable income (after taxes and required deductions) and the current Alabama exemption amount (based on federal minimum wage). All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What counts as disposable earnings?
A: Disposable earnings are what remains after legally required deductions (taxes, Social Security, etc.), but not voluntary deductions.

Q2: How is the Alabama exemption calculated?
A: The exemption is 30 times the federal minimum wage (currently $7.25/hour × 30 = $217.50 per week).

Q3: Are there different rules for child support?
A: Yes, child support garnishments may allow up to 50-60% of disposable income depending on circumstances.

Q4: Can multiple garnishments exceed 25%?
A: Generally no, except for certain priority debts like child support or tax levies.

Q5: How often should garnishment be recalculated?
A: Whenever income changes significantly or when the federal minimum wage changes.