Can Bail Bonds Garnish Wages?
Yes, a bail bonds company can garnish wages if you fail to repay the amount owed under a bail bond agreement. They must go through a legal process to do so.
How Wage Garnishment Works with Bail Bonds
- You Sign a Bail Bond Agreement
- When you use a bail bondsman, you (or a co-signer) agree to pay a non-refundable fee (usually 10% of the total bail).
- If collateral was used (e.g., house, car), the bail bond company can seize it if payments aren’t made.
- Failure to Pay the Bail Bond Company
- If you miss payments or refuse to pay, the bail bond company can take legal action.
- Bail Bondsman Files a Lawsuit
- The bondsman must sue you in civil court for the unpaid amount.
- If they win, the court may issue a judgment against you.
- Court Grants Wage Garnishment Order
- If you still don’t pay after the judgment, the court can allow the bail bondsman to garnish your wages.
- This means a portion of your paycheck is automatically deducted and sent to the bail bond company.
How Much Can They Garnish?
- Federal law limits wage garnishment to 25% of your disposable income or the amount exceeding 30 times the federal minimum wage, whichever is lower.
- Some states have stricter garnishment limits or exemptions for low-income individuals.
How to Avoid Wage Garnishment from a Bail Bond
✔ Pay Your Bond Agreement on Time – Stick to the agreed payment schedule.
✔ Negotiate with the Bondsman – Some companies offer payment plans or settlements.
✔ Respond to Lawsuits – If sued, go to court and try to settle before a judgment is issued.
✔ Seek Legal Help – If you’re struggling, a lawyer can help you fight garnishment or negotiate debt relief.
Bottom Line
✔ Yes, bail bond companies can garnish wages, but only after winning a lawsuit against you.
✔ To avoid garnishment, it’s best to pay on time, negotiate, or seek legal assistance if needed.
