Can a creditor garnish my Social Security?

Can a creditor garnish your Social Security—Section 407 of the Social Security Act generally exempts benefits from assignment, garnishment, and legal process with limited exceptions (federal taxes, child support, alimony, certain federal debts). ^[1] Bank accounts Commingling benefits with other funds complicates protection; 31 CFR Part 212 provides automatic protection of direct-deposited benefits in many accounts up to two months of benefits when traced. ^[2] Private creditors Most credit card and medical creditors cannot garnish SSA benefits directly—but bank freezes after deposit may still occur without careful structuring. Student loans Federal student loan garnishment has special Treasury rules. Get help A lawyer or legal aid can review exemption claims. ^[1][2]