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Recover Debts Directly from Wages with an Attachment of Earnings Order
If a debtor is employed and hasn’t responded to other enforcement methods, an Attachment of Earnings Order (AEO) allows you to secure regular repayments straight from their salary.
Recovering unpaid debts doesn’t have to be uncertain. At Phoenix Solicitors, we help creditors across England and Wales apply for AEOs efficiently and correctly — so you can start receiving the money you’re owed, without delay.
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What Is an Attachment of Earnings Order?
An Attachment of Earnings Order is a court-issued instruction requiring a debtor’s employer to deduct money from their wages and send it to the court to repay a debt. It provides a structured and reliable repayment method, making it easier for creditors to recover County Court Judgments (CCJs).
This enforcement option is only available if the debtor:
- Owes more than £50
- Is employed (not self-employed or solely on benefits)
How to Apply for an Attachment of Earnings Order
The application process involves the following steps:
1. Confirm Eligibility
Ensure the debtor meets the legal criteria: over £50 owed and currently employed.
2. Complete Form N337
This is the official Request for Attachment of Earnings Order form, available from the UK Government’s website or local county court.
3. Submit the Application
Send the completed form and a £131 court fee to the court that issued the original CCJ.
Get expert helpWhat Happens Next?
Court Notification
The debtor will be notified of the application and asked to supply their employment and financial details.
Assessment and Issuance
If appropriate, the court will issue an Attachment of Earnings Order, directing the employer to deduct a set amount from the debtor’s salary each payday.
Employer Compliance
The employer must forward these deductions to the court, which then transfers the funds to you — the creditor.
Costs Involved
- Court Fee: £131
This can be added to the total debt, allowing you to recover the fee over time. - Legal Support (Optional):
We offer affordable, fixed-fee services to handle your AEO application from start to finish.
Why Choose Phoenix Solicitors?
Trusted Expertise – Our solicitors specialise in debt enforcement and have a proven track record of successful AEO applications.
End-to-End Support – We handle the application, service, and follow-up with the court so you don’t have to.
Clear, Competitive Pricing – No hidden fees. Just straightforward legal advice tailored to your case.
FAQs
What is the minimum debt for an Attachment of Earnings Order?
You can apply if the debtor owes £50 or more and is currently employed.
Can an AEO be made if the debtor is self-employed or unemployed?
No. AEOs can only be issued if the debtor receives regular wages from an employer.
Will I get my court fee back?
Yes, the £131 fee can be added to the total debt, and is usually recovered through the deducted payments.
How much will be deducted from the debtor’s wages?
The court sets the repayment amount based on the debtor’s income and financial circumstances — balancing their ability to pay with your right to recover the debt.
Can the debtor object?
Yes, the debtor can request a variation order or argue for a reduced payment based on hardship, but the court will assess their finances before making any changes.
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