Resources
Calculate the attachable portion of wages
Work out the attachable portion of wages or benefits under art. 1409 Ger.W., with the annually indexed amounts and the increase per dependent child.
In a wage garnishment or wage assignment the creditor may not take your entire income. Article 1409 of the Belgian Judicial Code protects part of your net monthly income. This tool calculates the attachable portion using the indexed amounts for 2026.
Everything you receive net in the same calendar month, including a year-end bonus or holiday pay.
Only after you have declared them to your employer or paying institution on the statutory form.
Indexed amounts
The threshold amounts of art. 1409 Ger.W. and the amount per dependent child are adjusted to the consumer price index every year on 1 January (art. 1409 §2 Ger.W.). This tool uses the 2026 amounts, last checked on September 19, 2026. Check for yourself whether the amounts are still current:
Estimate: not legal advice
This calculation is an indication based on your own input and does not replace personal advice.
Frequently asked questions
What amount is a wage garnishment calculated on?
On your net income per calendar month, after social security contributions, withholding tax and deductions for a group insurance policy, for example. All amounts paid in the same month are added together.
When does a child count as dependent?
The child is under 25 (or has extended minority status), you contribute substantially to its costs, and its own net income stays below the statutory limit. You have to declare this yourself on the statutory form; it is not applied automatically.
Do the limits also apply to maintenance?
No. For maintenance the entire income can be attached (art. 1412 Ger.W.).
I am self-employed. Am I protected?
Not automatically. You have to ask the attachment judge to set a protected amount (art. 1409bis Ger.W.), within a short period after the attachment. Get in touch quickly.
Which income cannot be attached at all?
Family allowances, the living wage and allowances for people with a disability, among others (art. 1410 §2 Ger.W.).
Need legal assistance?
Contact us to discuss your case. For urgent criminal matters call or WhatsApp: 24/7.