If your bank account is garnished (Kontopfändung), a P-Konto can help keep legally protected amounts available—for example, for rent and groceries.
Key points
- P-Konto means garnishment protection account (Pfändungsschutzkonto). Each person may have only one P-Konto.
- A basic exempt amount (Grundfreibetrag) is protected in a P-Konto. It is currently €1,587.40 per month.
- The exempt amount (Freibetrag) may increase, for example if you pay maintenance or receive certain social benefits. You usually need a certificate for this.
- The exempt amounts (Freibeträge) are adjusted every year on 1 July.
- The bank cannot simply close your account because of a garnishment; converting it into a P-Konto is a legal right.
- Standard current account
- Account garnishment (Kontopfändung)
- Conversion to a P-Konto
- Legally protected amount remains available
What now?
- 1Ask your bank to convert your account into a P-Konto
- 2Check whether you may be entitled to a higher exempt amount (Freibetrag)
- 3Get a certificate from a recognised body, such as a debt advice service (Schuldnerberatung), a family benefits office (Familienkasse) or a Jobcenter
- 4Submit the certificate to your bank
- 5Contact a debt advice service (Schuldnerberatung) to clarify the claims
For example, recognised debt advice services (Schuldnerberatungsstellen), employers, family benefits offices (Familienkassen) or social benefit providers such as the Jobcenter. It's best to ask a debt advice service which body is right for you.
Under certain conditions, unused protected funds can be carried over into the following months. An advice service or your bank can explain the details.
As a general rule, banks cannot charge higher fees for a P-Konto than for a comparable current account. If you have questions, the consumer advice centre (Verbraucherzentrale) can help.
MeaNext provides general information about debt, payment reminders (Mahnungen), garnishment (Pfändung) and financial problems. This information does not replace individual debt, legal or financial advice. Deadlines, contracts, types of claims and personal circumstances may be crucial in your particular case.
Last reviewed by a specialist: 09/10/2026
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