Offset
Offset: Another word for setoff: reducing one obligation by another. In federal collections, the government can offset — withhold — certain federal payments to collect delinquent debts through the Treasury Offset Program. Agencies may offset federal payments for debts owed to the United States, and, by agreement, certain debts owed to states (31 U.S.C. § 3716). Federal tax refunds may be reduced for debts owed to federal agencies, past-due child support, and certain state income tax and unemployment compensation debts (31 U.S.C. § 3720A; 26 U.S.C. § 6402).
What offset means
In practice, you will see offset in pleadings, motions, orders and court rules. The definition above explains the general meaning. Even so, the meaning can shift with context. Therefore, always read it alongside the rule or document where it appears.
Where offset comes up
The term is used across many kinds of cases. For example, you may see it in pleadings, motions and court orders. To see it in context, browse the motions and procedures library or the Learn the Law topics.
How to research the term
Start with the primary source. For example, if offset appears in a federal rule, read the rule itself and its official notes. After that, check your court’s local rules and any standing orders from the judge. In addition, search recent decisions from your own state or federal district. They show how courts read offset in practice. Because state rules often differ, our state procedures guide links to each state’s official rules. Above all, make sure the version you read is still in force.
You can read the current federal court rules online for free.
Related legal terms
- Objection: a formal statement opposing a question, an item of evidence, a discovery request or a ruling, together with the reason.
- Offer: in contract law, the manifestation of willingness to enter into a bargain, so made as to justify another person in understanding that his assent to that bargain is invited and will conclude it (Restatement (Second) of Contracts § 24).
- Offer of judgment: a formal offer by a party defending against a claim to allow judgment on specified terms. Under Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 68, if the other side rejects it and later obtains a judgment that is not more favorable than the offer, it must pay the costs incurred after the offer was made.
- Officer of the court: a person who has a duty to help the court administer justice, including judges, clerks, bailiffs, court reporters and attorneys.
Why precise terms matter
Courts read legal terms closely. As a result, knowing the exact meaning of a word helps you follow orders, rules and filings. Each glossary entry on Lawtopolis is short on purpose and links to the pages where the term is used.
Sources
Sources last reviewed: 2026-10-24
Lawtopolis provides legal information and education, not legal advice. Using this site does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws and court rules vary by jurisdiction and change over time; verify every authority against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction about your situation.