Protecting the Rights of Consumers For Over 25 Years

Question: My daughter’s bank placed a freeze on her account due to a collection judgment. They are holding $950. All of the money she has. Is this legal?

Answer: If the source of the income is social security or pension benefits, it should not be frozen. Regardless of the source of the income, in Illinois, there is a “wildcard” exemption for $4,000 not otherwise exempted, which can be applied to a bank account. Your daughter needs to file a motion to release the funds on this ground ASAP.