I am receiving SSI benefits but have accrued a lot of credit card debt. If the credit card companies sue me can they garnish my SSI check?
–Tracy
Jonathan responds: No, your SSI check is exempt from garnishment. However, if a credit card company sues you and gets a judgment, your bank account could be at risk of a garnishment. In theory SSI money in your bank accout should be protected, but I would not depend on the bank to know that, especially if you use the bank account for regular transactions. You might want to open a savings account that is only used as a deposit account for your SSI or you may want to receive your SSI payments by check.

If you have been considering bankruptcy, be aware that there are new laws in place and new restrictions on discharging recently incurred credit card debt.