8 - DOJ PC TOP Policy Statement.pdf

This document is a U.S. Department of Justice Policy Statement (1400.03) regarding the Treasury Offset Program (TOP), which is a centralized offset program administered by the Department of the Treasury to collect delinquent non-tax debts owed to federal agencies and states. The policy establishes procedures for Private Counsel Offices under contract with the Department of Justice for debt collection services, requiring them to refer post-judgment civil debts to the TOP.

Key details include the policy's scope covering Private Counsel Offices under Department of Justice contract and oversight of United States Attorneys' Offices. The document outlines debt eligibility criteria, specifying that debts less than $25, those paid in full, in foreclosure, or with an active bankruptcy case are not referrable. The policy mandates that prior to TOP referral, debtors must receive a Notice of Intent with debt details and rights, and be provided opportunities to inspect judgment orders, present evidence contesting the debt, and enter repayment agreements. TOP offsets can include income tax refunds, salary, travel advances, retirement payments, and some Social Security benefits, with specific exemptions for various federal payment types detailed in the appendices.