Behind on Student Loans? Here’s How to Stop the Government From Taking Your Paycheck

Look, falling behind on student loans can happen to anyone. Life gets messy, money gets tight, and suddenly you’re staring at a pile of debt that feels impossible to manage. But if you’re worried about wage garnishment—where the government takes money straight from your paycheck—it’s not the end of the world. There are steps you can take to protect yourself and even stop it.

Here’s the lowdown.

What’s Going On Right Now?

After a long pause during the pandemic, the government started collecting overdue student loan payments again in 2025. That means if you’re behind, they can now take part of your paycheck directly to cover what you owe. They can also grab your tax refunds or even some Social Security benefits.

This might sound scary (and it is, honestly), but knowing what’s coming is the first step to taking control.

What Is Wage Garnishment, Exactly?

Wage garnishment means your employer will withhold a chunk of your paycheck and send it straight to the government to pay down your student loans. For federal loans, that amount can be up to 15% of what you take home after taxes and other mandatory deductions.

But don’t worry—they have to leave you with at least about $217.50 a week to live on. Still tight, but at least it’s something.

So, What Can You Do?

If you’re behind on payments, here’s the game plan:

1. Talk to Your Loan Servicer
   It might feel uncomfortable, but call them. They can explain your options, like repayment plans or loan forgiveness programs. They want to work with you if you reach out.

2. See If You Qualify for an Income-Driven Repayment Plan
   This plan adjusts your monthly payment based on your income and family size. Sometimes, you could pay as little as $0 a month. The best part? It’s easier than ever to apply now.

3. If You’re in Default, Loan Rehabilitation Can Help
   Make nine monthly payments on time, and you can get your loan out of default. That stops wage garnishment and improves your credit. It’s a fresh start.

4. Consider Loan Consolidation
   Rolling your loans into one can sometimes stop garnishments and open the door to new repayment options.

5. Request a Hearing If You Think It’s Unfair
   You have the right to challenge a wage garnishment. If it’s causing serious financial hardship, you can ask for a review.

Watch Out for Scams

With all this news, scammers are out there trying to trick people. They might promise to “fix” your loans for a fee. Don’t fall for it. Always check information with official sites like studentaid.gov or call your loan servicer.

Wage garnishment isn’t fun, but it’s manageable. You’re not alone, and there are real ways to stop it or make it easier to handle. The key? Don’t wait—reach out, explore your options, and get help if you need it.