Are banks authorized to levy or garnish alimony payments for debt collection purposes?

    The Agency of the Republic of Kazakhstan for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market

    Question

    Are banks authorized to levy or garnish alimony payments for debt collection purposes?

    Answer

    In accordance with Article 36 of the Law "On Banks and Banking Activities in the Republic of Kazakhstan," in the event of overdue debt, the bank has the right to issue a payment demand for funds available in the borrower’s bank accounts. Exceptions include funds received by the borrower in the form of alimony, benefits, social, and other payments.

    It is prohibited to collect money from clients’ bank accounts intended for alimony payments (funds designated for the support of minor and incapacitated adult children) to repay bank loans based on payment demands.

    Special accounts are opened by banks or JSC “Kazpost” at the request of an individual and upon specifying in the bank account opening application the special purpose of the account.

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