How to Avoid Bank Account Garnishments by a Debt Collector

Stop paying on a debt and your creditor or debt collector might contact your bank to begin garnishing or levying your wages. A creditor can take legal action by scheduling a court hearing to collect on a debt. If you don't show up on the court date, or if the judge concludes that you owe an outstanding balance, you could be hit with a judgment. Bank garnishments can take effect if you don't pay off the judgment. But instead of having money deducted from your account, work with creditors and collectors to avoid a garnishment.

Instructions

1

Send a check to the debt collector to pay off any remaining balance. Debt collectors can conduct subsequent garnishments or levies until outstanding balances are paid in full. Avert future garnishments by satisfying the unpaid debt in full.

2

Talk about settling the debt to avoid a garnishment. Creditors and collectors warn debtors of possible bank account garnishments. Avoid losing funds by contacting your collector and asking for a debt settlement. You then pay a portion of what's owed to satisfy the bill and stop collection efforts.

3

Protect your bank account by declaring bankruptcy. File a Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy to immediately stop lawsuits, garnishments or levies by debt collectors. Talk to a lawyer to decide which bankruptcy option is best. Only file for bankruptcy if you can't pay your balances.