When parents divorce, one co-parent is required to pay child support to help ensure that children receive the financial resources they need. When one parent fails to make their required payments, it doesn’t just affect the other parent — it directly impacts the child’s well-being.
Courts take this obligation seriously, and there are legal tools in place to enforce payment and hold non-paying parents accountable. Understanding available options is essential for co-parents struggling to keep up with payments or those who aren’t receiving what they’re owed.
Legal consequences for missing child support payments
At first, it may start with late fees or interest added to the unpaid balance. But if payments continue to be missed, state child support enforcement agencies can escalate enforcement measures, which may include:
- Wage garnishment: A portion of the non-paying parent’s paycheck sent directly to the receiving parent
- License suspension: Various licenses can be suspended for unpaid support
- Tax refund interception: Tax refunds may be intercepted and applied toward the past-due balance
These enforcement methods are designed to compel payment and help co-parents receive the financial resources needed to care for the kids.
What co-parents should do about missed payments
When a co-parent is struggling to keep up with child support, they should consider taking these steps:
- Contact the court immediately: A co-parent can file for custody order modification following the significant shift in their financial standing.
- Document everything: Affected co-parents should keep records of their income, expenses and any efforts they’ve made to pay what they can.
- Don’t stop paying entirely: Even partial payments can allow co-parents to establish their continued willingness to meet obligations.
Co-parents who are not receiving child support can contact their local child support enforcement agency for the initiation of wage garnishment.
Child support is a vital contribution that goes towards providing for a child’s future. Co-parents who are falling behind or dealing with an uncooperative co-parent should know that there are systems in place to help. Open communication, swift action and legal guidance can make all the difference in resolving child support issues.