The law protects what people need to live. What can be seized in an individual case depends on the claim and your situation.
Key points
- The basic protected allowance (Grundfreibetrag) for income is currently €1,587.40 net per month.
- Different limits may apply to maintenance claims (Unterhaltsforderungen) or claims arising from intentional unlawful acts (vorsätzliche unerlaubte Handlungen).
- Some social benefits (Sozialleistungen) have special protection. Get advice on this.
Often protected
- Income up to the garnishment exemption threshold (Pfändungsfreigrenze)
- Money in your P-Konto up to the protected allowance (Freibetrag)
- Items for a modest household, such as a bed, clothing and a fridge
- Items you need for your work
Can be seized
- Income above the exemption threshold (Freigrenze)
- Money in your account above the protected allowance (Freibetrag)
- Valuables and luxury goods
- Claims against others, such as refunds
A bailiff (Gerichtsvollzieher) can seize items that are not protected and sell them to recover money. In practice, income and bank accounts are often targeted first.
If you have an illness, a disability or special expenses, you can apply for a higher protected allowance (Freibetrag). An advice service can help with the application.
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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