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In Ireland, an account seizure is a legal process where funds in a person's bank account are frozen, and potentially confiscated, to settle outstanding debts. This is usually enforced when debts remain unpaid after formal demands.

Account seizures in Ireland are governed by laws such as the Enforcement of Court Orders Acts, the Taxes Consolidation Act, and the Proceeds of Crime Act. These laws define the procedures for account seizures and protection of debtor rights.

Seizure orders are delivered to banks by authorized officials, such as Sheriffs or County Registrars. Orders can be initiated by:

• Tax authorities: the Revenue Commissioners can collect unpaid taxes directly, often through Revenue Sheriffs, without needing a court order
• Courts: judicial bodies can issue orders for debt recovery
• Private creditors: after obtaining a court judgment, private creditors can request enforcement through Sheriffs or County Registrars. The Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB) agency targets assets suspected to be acquired through criminal activity, acting under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

If your account was frozen due to a seizure initiated in Ireland, we can only lift the order once we receive formal confirmation from the authority responsible for the order. This might be the Revenue Commissioners, a court or County Registrar, or the Criminal Assets Bureau.

In the notification email we sent you, check the contact details for the authority that issued the order and contact them directly. Once the authority confirms the unfreezing of your account, we’ll take the necessary steps to restore your access to the funds.

If your account is subject to a seizure and you receive income — such as a salary, pension, or social benefits — into this account, a portion of your balance may remain available to you each month. This is a legally protected amount designed to ensure you can still cover essential living expenses.

In Ireland, while there isn't a standardized minimum allowance, the law provides for a protected earnings rate, ensuring that deductions from wages do not reduce your income below a certain threshold necessary for living expense.

The specific amount can vary based on individual circumstances. It's advisable to consult with the relevant authority or seek legal advice to understand the protections applicable to your situation.