Section 10.423 - May compensation payments be assigned to, or attached by, creditors?(a) As a general rule, compensation and claims for compensation are exempt from the claims of private creditors. Further, any attempt by a FECA beneficiary to assign his or her claim is null and void. However, pursuant to provisions of the Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. 659 , and regulations issued by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) at 5 CFR part 581 , FECA benefits, including survivor's benefits, may be garnished to collect overdue alimony and child support payments.(b) Garnishment for child support and alimony may be requested by providing a copy of the State agency or court order to the district office handling the FECA claim.