What is a garnishment?

A wage garnishment is a legal process in which an employer must deduct a specific amount from an employee’s earnings for payment to a third party. A court order or government order is required for a wage garnishment.

Failure of an employer to comply with a garnishment order, may result in penalties, fines, or the employer being held responsible for the full balance of the garnishment. A garnishment does not require the permission of the employee.

Identifying Orders

There are three categories of legal orders that employers must comply with:

• Garnishments (Federal garnishments and Provincial garnishments) also referred to as Requirements to Pay

• Family support and maintenance orders