Wage Assignment
A court order directing an employer to deduct child or spousal support directly from the paying spouse's paycheck.
Understanding Wage Assignment
Wage assignments (also called income withholding orders) are the most common method of collecting support. They ensure consistent, timely payments by removing the paying spouse's discretion. Federal law requires income withholding in most child support orders. The employer sends the withheld amount directly to the state disbursement unit, which forwards it to the receiving spouse. Wage assignments take priority over most other paycheck deductions except taxes.
Real-World Examples
A wage assignment deducted $1,800 monthly from his paycheck for child and spousal support.
Related Terms
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This definition is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Divorce laws and terminology may vary by state and jurisdiction.
Always consult a licensed attorney in your area for advice specific to your situation.