1. What is Wage Garnishment in Oregon?

Wage garnishment in Oregon is a legal process where a portion of an employee's earnings is withheld by their employer for the payment of a debt. Oregon law provides specific protections for debtors regarding how much can be garnished.

2. How Does Garnishment Work in Oregon?

Oregon follows federal guidelines for wage garnishment with some state-specific protections:

Where:

• Disposable Earnings — Gross pay minus legally required deductions
• 25% — Maximum percentage that can typically be garnished
• Exemption — Oregon's protected amount from garnishment

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

3. Understanding the Calculation

Details: Oregon law protects a portion of your wages from garnishment. The exact exemption amount depends on your pay period and family situation.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your disposable earnings (after taxes and other required deductions) and the applicable exemption amount. The calculator will determine the maximum that can be garnished under Oregon law.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the current exemption amount in Oregon?
A: The exemption varies based on pay period and family size. Check with the Oregon Department of Justice for current amounts.

Q2: Are all debts subject to wage garnishment?
A: No, only certain types like child support, tax debts, and court-ordered judgments typically qualify.

Q3: Can my employer fire me for wage garnishment?
A: Oregon law prohibits employers from terminating employees due to a single garnishment order.

Q4: Are there types of income that can't be garnished?
A: Yes, certain benefits like Social Security, unemployment, and workers' compensation are typically exempt.

Q5: How can I stop wage garnishment?
A: You may be able to negotiate with the creditor, file for bankruptcy, or prove financial hardship in court.