When a creditor files a legal action against an individual who is delinquent on payment, they might request that the court issues an order to the individual's employer stipulating that money from future paychecks be withheld to pay off the balance in question. This is called wage garnishment, and it can be a major headache for those who have to deal with the stress of a diminishing paycheck. Fortunately, there are some ways to potentially stop garnishment; below, a few of these methods are discussed in more detail.

Consider a Payment Plan

You don't want to be in debt, and you want to do whatever you can to repay any outstanding balances. Even putting a little money each month toward the bill can be helpful, as it will start to add up over time. Contact the creditor or collections agency directly and see if they would be willing to offer a payment plan. Let them know how much you can spend every month, and tell them you want to make good on this debt. You might be pleasantly surprised to find them willing to work with you to resolve the issue.

Pay the Debt

If a debtor has the money to repay what they owe, it stands to reason they would have done so long before a wage garnishment was ordered. However, despite your best intentions, a bill can sometimes get lost in the shuffle or slip one's mind. In cases like this, those who have the funds should pay the debt immediately to put an end to the garnishment.

Consult a Lawyer

If the above suggestions are not viable options, it might be time to speak with an attorney. A lawyer can better help you explore all of the legal possibilities that might be available. Bankruptcy, for instance, is a surefire way to stop garnishment, and it can get you back on more solid financial ground in a relatively short period of time. Never hesitate to consult a lawyer, and be sure to bring a list of questions and paperwork relating to the debt to your initial meeting.

Attorney Harry B. Zornow has been working with clients to stop wage garnishment for nearly 30 years. He represents Hamilton, OH, residents in all aspects of bankruptcy, Social Security, and probate matters. Call (513) 737-9770 to schedule a consultation, or visit him online to learn more about his practice areas.