Arizona follows the federal Consumer Credit Protection Act baseline for wage garnishment. Creditors can garnish up to 25% of your disposable earnings or the amount exceeding 30 times the federal minimum wage, whichever is less. Arizona does not provide additional state-level wage garnishment protections beyond the federal baseline, but understanding the process and your rights is essential.
How Garnishment Works in Arizona
In Arizona, a creditor must obtain a court judgment before initiating wage garnishment. The creditor then applies for a writ of garnishment, which is served on your employer. Arizona uses a continuing garnishment system, meaning the garnishment remains in effect for the duration specified in the court order rather than requiring repeated filings. Your employer must begin withholding within 10 business days of receiving the writ.
Use our Arizona Wage Garnishment Calculator to determine your specific garnishment amount. You can also compare with other states using our state wage garnishment calculators, including California Wage Garnishment Calculator, Texas Wage Garnishment Calculator, and New York Wage Garnishment Calculator.
Arizona Garnishment Exemptions
While Arizona follows federal garnishment percentages, certain income is exempt under state law. Arizona exempts a minimum amount of wages necessary for the support of the debtor and their family. Social Security, veterans benefits, unemployment compensation, and workers compensation are also protected. Arizona also provides some protection for retirement accounts and pensions. For more on exemptions, see How to File a Wage Garnishment Exemption and Illinois Wage Garnishment Limits and How to Reduce Them for comparison with other states.
The Arizona Garnishment Timeline
After receiving a garnishment order, you typically have 10 days to file an objection or claim of exemption with the Arizona court. Missing this deadline can limit your options, so acting quickly is critical. If you believe the garnishment amount is incorrect or that you qualify for an exemption, file your claim immediately. See our exemption filing guide for step-by-step instructions.
Child Support and Tax Garnishment
Child support garnishment in Arizona can take 50-65% of disposable earnings. The Arizona Division of Child Support Services actively enforces support orders through income withholding. Arizona also has a state income tax, and the Arizona Department of Revenue can levy wages for unpaid state taxes. For child support details, see our child support guide. For additional insights on wage garnishment differences, check out Wage Garnishment vs Bank Levy: What's the Difference?.
Options for Arizona Residents
If you are facing garnishment in Arizona, explore settlement negotiation, exemption claims, or consult with an Arizona consumer law attorney. Compare Arizona's protections with other states using our State Comparison Tool and discover protections in states like Florida and Georgia.
Need Help Beyond the Calculator?
If you're dealing with wage garnishment in Arizona, professional help may be the fastest path forward. Visit our Resources page to explore vetted options for legal help.