Writs, Till Taps, and Keepers: Collecting Support From Cash Businesses

The payor who owns a cash business laughs at wage garnishment — until the sheriff stands at his register collecting every dollar that crosses it. Support judgments unlock the same tools as any creditor, with more staying power.

What California Law Says

A writ of execution on support arrears supports sheriff till taps — a one-time register seizure — and keeper levies, where the sheriff occupies the business for a period collecting receipts. Vehicles, equipment, and inventory are levyable assets subject to exemption limits that yield readily to support claims.

How to Collect, Step by Step

1. Get the writ issued for the current arrears total, interest included.
2. Instruct the sheriff: business address, hours, cash flow patterns you know.
3. Choose the tool: till tap for a message, keeper for sustained collection.
4. Repeat strategically — the second keeper visit usually produces the payment plan.
5. Pair with the debtor exam to map equipment and vehicles worth levying.

Common Questions

Won’t he just close for the day when the sheriff comes?

Closing dodges one visit and advertises the problem to his customers — while the writ, the costs, and the next visit all remain.

What does a keeper cost me?

Sheriff fees and keeper deposits are recoverable costs added to the judgment — he ultimately pays for his own collection.