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Q703: The IRS has claimed I owe money for 2018. Can they garnish my VA compensation? I’m on social security and have a pension.
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A1: Heard on news of fake IRS? Beware? I even got a fake email? caution? FYI? (CP) 4/28/21
A2: VA Disability Compensation is not subject to garnishment by law. So, it's pretty much safe from that. Your outside pension and Social Security could be. Ordinarily garnishment are limited to 50% of the net amount to be received providing that the reduced amount along with ALL other sources of income (in this total is where VA Disability comes into the picture) does not reduce your income household income below the national poverty average income. BTW, there's a reason why the IRS says you owe. If you're relatively certain that you don't then call them at 800 829-1040 It's a long wait but if you don't owe it, it would be worth your time. Otherwise seek help. Lawyers and CPAs can get pricy and you might end up paying them more than what you but that might be the way to go. Or you can seek out an Enrolled Agent (EA) or a Registered Tax Return Preparer (references at irs,gov). Once an amount is determined, if any, you can use a payment plan to resolve the debt. (GC) 4/28/21
A3: VA benefits cannot be garnished to repay consumer debt, such as a past due credit card bill or a personal loan. Benefits also cannot be garnished to repay past due federal student loan debt or be included in bankruptcy proceedings. However, there is no built-in protection for VA pension and retirement benefits if you owe money to the federal or state government. Pension and retirement benefits are subject to assignment for federal debts such as child support or alimony, as well as federal and state income taxes. (PP) 4/28/21
A4: Your pension may be vulnerable, but your disability [VA or SovcSec] is not. (RR) 4/28/21
A5: They can garnish anything disability, wages insurance payment. (RT) 4/28/21
A6: Yes the IRS can garnish both VA Compensation and social security Disability. I've had garnishments on both..But not by the IRS. (MS) 4/28/21