Wage Garnishment and Exemption Amount in Zoetermeer
With wage garnishment, a portion of your income is directly paid to creditors. However, you always retain the right to the exemption amount.
What is Wage Garnishment?
If a creditor has a court judgment, they can levy garnishment on your salary. Your employer then withholds a portion of your wages and pays it to the creditor.
What is the Exemption Amount?
The exemption amount is the minimum amount you must retain for living expenses. This is determined based on:
- Your living situation
- Housing costs
- Benefits received
Amount of the Exemption Amount
The exemption amount is approximately 90% of the social assistance norm, supplemented by a portion of your housing costs and health insurance premium.
How is this calculated?
Since 2021, the exemption amount is automatically determined via the Digital Garnishment Register.
What if there are multiple garnishments?
Even with multiple garnishments, the exemption amount remains unchanged, so you do not end up with less.
Statutory basis: Code of Civil Procedure
Frequently Asked Questions about Wage Garnishment in Zoetermeer
How much of my salary may be withheld?
With wage garnishment, the exemption amount always remains yours, which is at least 90% of the social assistance norm plus a portion of housing and health care costs. The amount is determined by your situation and calculated via the Digital Garnishment Register. Only the amount above that is withheld.
What if my employer withholds too much?
If you think too much is being paid over, check this via the Digital Garnishment Register or contact the bailiff. You are entitled to the correct exemption amount. Discuss this with your employer or seek legal assistance via, for example, the Zoetermeer Legal Desk.
How is the exemption amount determined with benefits?
Benefits such as rent or health care allowance are included in determining the exemption amount, which may result in a higher amount retained. The calculation is done automatically via the Digital Garnishment Register, taking into account your income and expenses.
Can I object to wage garnishment?
Yes, you can object if you believe the garnishment is incorrect or the exemption amount is not correct. File an objection with the bailiff or the court. Consider assistance from the Zoetermeer Legal Desk or a lawyer.
What if multiple creditors levy garnishment?
With multiple garnishments, your exemption amount remains the same. The amount above this threshold is distributed among the creditors, with certain debts such as maintenance having priority. The bailiff handles this distribution.