1. What is Wage Garnishment in Michigan?

Wage garnishment in Michigan is a legal process where a portion of an employee's earnings is withheld by an employer for payment of a debt. Michigan law provides specific protections and limitations on how much can be garnished from wages.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Michigan wage garnishment formula:

Where:

• Disposable Earnings — Earnings after legally required deductions (taxes, Social Security, etc.)
• Michigan Exemption Amount — Protected amount based on Michigan law

Explanation: The garnishment amount is the lesser of 25% of disposable earnings OR the amount by which disposable earnings exceed the exemption amount.

3. Understanding Michigan Garnishment Laws

Details: Michigan follows federal guidelines (Consumer Credit Protection Act) but provides additional protections. The exemption amount is typically 30 times the federal minimum wage per week.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your disposable earnings (after mandatory deductions) and the current Michigan exemption amount. The calculator will determine the maximum that can be legally garnished.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What types of debts can lead to wage garnishment in Michigan?
A: Common reasons include child support, tax debts, student loans, and court judgments.

Q2: How is disposable income calculated?
A: It's your gross pay minus legally required deductions (federal/state taxes, Social Security, etc.).

Q3: Are there different rules for child support garnishment?
A: Yes, child support garnishments can take up to 50-60% of disposable earnings depending on circumstances.

Q4: Can I challenge a wage garnishment?
A: Yes, you may be able to file a claim of exemption if the garnishment causes undue hardship.

Q5: Where can I find the current Michigan exemption amount?
A: Check with the Michigan Department of Labor or consult with an employment attorney for the most current figures.