1. What is Wage Garnishment?

Wage garnishment is a legal procedure where a portion of a person's earnings is withheld by their employer for the payment of a debt. In California, garnishment amounts are calculated based on disposable earnings and state-specific exemptions.

2. How Does California Garnishment Work?

California uses a two-part test to determine garnishment amounts:

Where:

• \( Disposable \) — Earnings after legally required deductions
• \( Exemption_{CA} \) — California's protected amount (2022 value)
• 25% — Federal maximum garnishment percentage
• 50% — California's additional calculation factor

Explanation: The garnishment is the lesser of 25% of disposable earnings or 50% of disposable earnings minus the state exemption amount.

3. Understanding the Calculation

Details: California law provides additional protections beyond federal law. The exemption amount changes periodically and varies based on pay period frequency.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your disposable earnings (after taxes and required deductions) and the current California exemption amount. The calculator will determine the maximum garnishment amount allowed by law.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: How often does the exemption amount change?
A: California updates exemption amounts periodically. Always check for the most current values.

Q3: Are all debts subject to garnishment?
A: No, only certain types like child support, tax debts, and court-ordered judgments can garnish wages.

Q4: Can I be fired for wage garnishment?
A: California law prohibits employers from firing employees due to a single garnishment.

Q5: Are there different rules for child support?
A: Yes, child support garnishments have different calculations and higher maximum percentages.