Frequently Asked Questions: Garnishment/Support

How to Calculate Garnishment and Support Order Withholdings from Wages in Virginia

These instructions are to assist Virginia employers who have received court or administrative orders requiring the employer to withhold and send wages to satisfy an employee's debt. These orders should be obeyed in every detail; failure to obey may be grounds for contempt of court. Section 34-29(c) of the Code of Virginia (1950) as amended, however, limits the amounts which may be withheld and provides: "No court of the Commonwealth and no state agency or officer may make, execute, or enforce any order or process in violation of this section".

First Step: Determine the Nature of the Employee's Debt

How to Withhold for Ordinary Debts

How to Withhold for Support Orders

Multiple Garnishments

Additional Notes on Garnishments and Support Orders

Further Information