Money is being taken from my wages — can I stop it?
Attachments of earnings and Direct Earnings Attachments can often be reduced if they leave you unable to afford essentials.
At a glance
- Court attachments of earnings must leave you a protected amount to live on.
- You can ask the court to change the order if circumstances change.
- Council tax and DWP deductions follow fixed rates but can sometimes be renegotiated.
- Your employer must follow the order — but you can still challenge the amount.
Know what kind of deduction it is
- Attachment of earnings from a county court judgment.
- Council tax attachment from your council.
- Direct Earnings Attachment for benefit overpayments or Social Fund loans.
- Universal Credit deductions taken before your payment.
Getting it reduced
- Gather your payslips and a budget showing essential costs.
- Contact whoever asked for the deduction, or apply to the court.
- We can help you work out the best route and what to say.
Common questions
- Will my employer think less of me?
- Employers deal with these orders routinely and must keep them confidential.