The subject of Social Security Disability or SSI and garnishment   Whenever the subject of Social Security Disability or SSI disability benefits and garnishment comes up, I typically tell someone "No, commercial debt collectors have no basis on which to garnish your disability benefits. The only time your disability benefit can be touched is when the issue regards arrears in child support or a debt owed to the federal government, such as income tax or student loans". Here is the portion of the social security act that substantiates the government's position on this, from section 207 of the social security act: "...none of the moneys paid or payable or rights existing under this title shall be subject to execution, levy, attachment, garnishment, or other legal process, or to the operation of any bankruptcy or insolvency law." If you are receiving Social Security Disability, there are other reasons your disability benefits may be reduced. Social Security allows SSDI benefits to be garnished for child support (both present and arrears), a valid court order of victim restitution, alimony, money owed to the IRS, and other unpaid government loans or debts. However, Social Security does not allow creditors to garnish your Social Security Disability benefits. Related: 1. Can my disability benefits be garnished for unpaid fines? 2. If I owe property tax, can my city or county government garnish my Social Security retirement check? 3. If I owe taxes, can the Federal government garnish my Social Security retirement check? About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: How do you find out how your disability claim is going? Filing an SSI disability appeal The chances of winning with a Social Security Disability judge Social Security Disability and ESRD, End Stage Renal Disease Filing and qualifying for disability with melanoma Can I apply for benefits with bipolar? How to file for disability in North Carolina NC Doctor who does the Social Security Disability Medical Exam Filing a disability appeal is how most cases are won Doctors who work for Social Security and their qualifications Can You File For Disability While Receiving Unemployment? Are Social Security Disability Claims Based On Back Pain Usually Turned Down? How much does disability pay? How long will you get disability after an award notice? If Social Security sends you to a psychiatrist