What Is A Voluntary Wage Assignment?

A voluntary wage assignment is a written contract in which you agree that a certain amount will be deducted from your paycheck to pay the creditor. Because it is voluntary, it is different from a garnishment. Since your employer’s accounting department must make the deduction and send it to the creditor, talk to your employer first to see if this arrangement is acceptable. Some employers refuse to handle voluntary wage assignments because it complicates their payroll procedure. If acceptable to your employer, the voluntary wage assignment is better than a garnishment. In the eyes of the employer, you are taking the responsibility of arranging to meet your obligations, rather than being forced to pay your debts. Some employers find reasons to suspend or fire employees if their wages are garnished. Don’t wait until then; make other arrangements with the creditor.