If you listen to some debt collectors, you might be fooled into thinking they will seize your very next paycheck unless you make a payment right then and there. But this is mainly an intimidation tactic used to dissuade you from participating in a debt resolution program. Actual garnishment actions are relatively rare, and do not happen without advance warning. First, a creditor must bring a lawsuit, obtain a judgment, and then take an additional step to obtain authorization for the garnishment. No one can take your paycheck without court approval, and you must be given notice of such court action through formal documentation. So, don’t be fooled by one of the oldest collection tricks in the book, find a suitable debt resolution instead.