A common method used by debt collectors is to levy bank accounts and safe deposit boxes held in the borrower’s name. When a bank account is levied, the funds are frozen or removed. Starting on September 1, 2020, a new law called SB-616 will protect $1724 in each Californian’s account from being levied by a debt collector, meaning that amount will stay in your account even if your account is levied.

If your account is levied before 9/1/2020, or if you had more than $1724 in your account and lost that money through a levy, you may be eligible to get some or all of your money back.

If you live in Alameda County, call the East Bay Community Law Center’s Consumer Justice Clinic to speak with an advocate: 510-548-4040 ext. 388.

If you DO NOT live in Alameda County, contact your local legal aid office, or follow these self-help steps from the Sacramento Law Library: https://saclaw.org/coe-bank-levy.