Child Support Arrears Calculator
Calculate back child support owed with state-specific interest rates
Court-ordered monthly child support amount ($)
Interest rates vary by state
Total months with missed or incomplete payments
Total amount paid during this period ($)
This is an estimate only. Actual amounts may differ based on your state's specific interest calculation method, payment history, and court orders. Contact your local child support enforcement agency for official amounts.
How Child Support Arrears Interest Works
When you miss child support payments, the unpaid balance becomes "arrears." Most states charge interest on these arrears, which can significantly increase the total amount owed over time.
- Interest accrues automatically — In most states, interest begins on the date each payment was due, not when a court issues an arrears judgment.
- Rates range from 6% to 12% — Each state sets its own statutory interest rate. Florida, for example, charges 12% per year, while Texas charges 6%.
- Simple vs. compound interest — Most states use simple interest, but some calculate interest on the total running balance (including prior interest), effectively compounding.
- Interest cannot be waived easily — In many states, the custodial parent cannot waive interest without court approval, and the state can collect interest on behalf of the child.
Consequences of Unpaid Child Support
Federal and state law provide aggressive enforcement tools for collecting unpaid child support. These consequences can apply even if you can't afford to pay:
Wage Garnishment
Up to 50-65% of disposable income can be withheld from your paycheck.
License Suspension
Driver's license, professional licenses, and recreational licenses can be suspended.
Tax Refund Intercept
Federal and state tax refunds can be seized to pay arrears.
Passport Denial
If you owe $2,500+, your passport application will be denied or revoked.
Credit Reporting
Arrears may be reported to credit bureaus, damaging your credit score.
Bank Account Levy
Funds in your bank accounts can be frozen and seized.
Contempt of Court
You can be held in contempt, which may include jail time.
Property Liens
Liens can be placed on real estate, vehicles, and other property.
How to Request an Arrears Payment Plan
If you've fallen behind on child support, taking proactive steps can help you avoid the most severe consequences:
- Contact your local child support enforcement agency — Many agencies will work with you to set up a manageable payment plan before taking enforcement action.
- File a motion to modify — If your income has changed significantly (job loss, disability, etc.), you can petition the court to reduce your ongoing obligation.
- Request a payment plan in court — Courts can approve structured repayment plans for arrears, often with a set monthly amount on top of current support.
- Document your financial situation — Bring pay stubs, tax returns, and proof of expenses to demonstrate your ability to pay.
- Never stop paying entirely — Even partial payments show good faith and may prevent contempt proceedings.
Federal OCSE Hotline: 1-800-401-4413
The Office of Child Support Enforcement can connect you with your state's agency and provide guidance on payment options.
State-by-State Interest Rates on Arrears
| State | Annual Rate |
|---|---|
| AL | 12% |
| CO | 12% |
| FL | 12% |
| GA | 12% |
| ID | 12% |
| KS | 12% |
| KY | 12% |
| LA | 12% |
| MA | 12% |
| MI | 12% |
| NE | 12% |
| NV | 12% |
| NM | 12% |
| ND | 12% |
| RI | 12% |
| SC | 12% |
| SD | 12% |
| TN | 12% |
| UT | 12% |
| VT | 12% |
| WA | 12% |
| WI | 12% |
| AZ | 10% |
| AR | 10% |
| CA | 10% |
| HI | 10% |
| IA | 10% |
| MD | 10% |
| MT | 10% |
| OH | 10% |
| OK | 10% |
| WV | 10% |
| WY | 10% |
| IL | 9% |
| MO | 9% |
| NY | 9% |
| OR | 9% |
| MS | 8% |
| NC | 8% |
| AK | 6% |
| CT | 6% |
| DE | 6% |
| DC | 6% |
| IN | 6% |
| ME | 6% |
| MN | 6% |
| NH | 6% |
| NJ | 6% |
| PA | 6% |
| TX | 6% |
| VA | 6% |