Child Support Enforcement: What to Do When Payments Stop

When a parent fails to pay court-ordered child support, it's not just frustrating—it can create real financial hardship. Here's what you can do.

Document Everything First

Before taking action, document:

• All missed or partial payments (dates and amounts)
• Any communication about payments
• Your child's expenses during this time
• Any hardship caused by non-payment

Enforcement Options

1. Contact Your State Child Support Agency

Every state has a Child Support Enforcement (CSE) agency that can help—usually for free or low cost. They can:

• Locate the other parent
• Establish paternity if needed
• Set up wage garnishment
• Intercept tax refunds
• Report to credit bureaus
• Suspend licenses

Find your state agency: Visit OCSE.ACF.HHS.gov

2. Wage Garnishment (Income Withholding)

The most effective enforcement method. The support is taken directly from the payer's paycheck before they receive it.

• Works automatically once set up
• Employer is legally required to comply
• Up to 50-65% of disposable income can be withheld

3. Tax Refund Intercept

Federal and state tax refunds can be seized to pay arrears:

• Federal intercept for arrears over $150 (or $500 for non-public assistance cases)
• State intercepts vary by state

4. License Suspension

Many states can suspend:

• Driver's licenses
• Professional licenses
• Recreational licenses (hunting, fishing)
• Passports (for arrears over $2,500)

5. Contempt of Court

For persistent non-payment, you can file a motion for contempt:

• The other parent must appear in court
• Penalties can include fines and jail time
• Often motivates payment or payment arrangements

6. Property Liens

A lien can be placed on:

• Real estate
• Vehicles
• Bank accounts
• Other assets

What NOT to Do

❌ Don't withhold visitation - Child support and visitation are separate legal issues ❌ Don't harass - It can hurt your case and potentially be illegal ❌ Don't make threats - Let the legal system handle enforcement ❌ Don't give up - Support obligations don't disappear

Calculating What's Owed

Use our Arrears Calculator to estimate:

• Total unpaid principal
• Interest (most states charge 6-12% annually)
• Current total balance

Tips for Success

1. Report non-payment promptly - Don't let arrears build up
2. Keep records - Document every missed payment
3. Update your address - Make sure agencies can reach you
4. Respond to requests - Provide documentation when asked
5. Be patient - Enforcement can take time

Statute of Limitations

Child support arrears typically don't expire. Most states allow collection indefinitely, and many allow collection even after the child turns 18 for past-due amounts.

Getting Help

• State CSE agency: Free enforcement services
• Family law attorney: For complex cases or contempt motions
• Legal aid: Free legal help for qualifying individuals