If you have missed child support payments, or have concerns about your ability to keep paying support on time, it is vital to understand how the state enforces child support orders. Back child support can lead to serious penalties that affect many aspects of your life.
It is essential to have a clear understanding of the different actions the state takes to enforce child support orders and prepare for what could lie ahead. Moreover, this should serve as a reminder of how important it is to stay current.
The penalties for failing to pay child support
The Indiana Department of Child Services states that parents who fail to pay child support can face a number of penalties. For example, if you fall behind on child support, the government could suspend your driver’s license, professional license and even your hunting license. You could lose your passport privileges and have your tax refund intercepted.
In some instances, parents who owe back support have their wages or unemployment benefits withheld, as well as the assets in their bank. Furthermore, the state could report your back support to credit bureaus.
Dealing with back child support
Many parents fall behind on child support for different reasons, from losing their job to suffering a serious and unexpected health crisis. If you are in this position, you should not give up. Take a look at your options, whether you can make payment arrangements to address unpaid support or modify your child support order due to significant financial changes in your life.
Promptly addressing back child support can help prevent some of the serious penalties associated with delinquency.
