Penalties for Not Making Child Support Payments

A legal obligation, child support payments are awarded to help ensure children receive the financial support they need from both parents. In Florida, parents who fail to meet their payment obligations face penalties, as the state is committed to enforcing these rules to protect children. If you’re struggling to make child support payments, talk to a West Palm Beach family attorney to explore your options for managing this responsibility.

Wage Impacts and Tax Refund Interception

There are a range of consequences for failing to send funds, which can escalate over a period of time when payments are missed.

• Wage garnishment. A Florida court may order wage garnishment, which essentially directs a portion of your paycheck directly to the custodial parent to cover your child support. This is one of the most common enforcement methods.
• Suspension of licenses. Unpaid child support can lead to the suspension of your driver’s license and, in some cases, professional licenses. This can be particularly disruptive, affecting your ability to work, commute, and maintain daily responsibilities. Reinstating your licenses typically requires payment of the overdue balance or setting up a payment plan.
• Interception of tax funds. If you have outstanding payments, your tax refunds can be seized and applied to your child support debt.
• Impacts to credit scores. Failures to pay child support are reported to credit agencies, leading to a negative impact on your credit score. This can affect your ability to secure loans, mortgages, and credit cards, as well as increase interest rates on existing accounts.
• Possible jail time. If stopped payments are not dealt with, a parent who consistently fails to pay child support may be found in contempt of court. Then, jail time is possible, but this is generally a last resort.

To avoid all of these issues, deal with financial difficulties head on. So, if you’re experiencing a significant change in your financial income, whether from a job loss or a pay cut, know that you may qualify for a support modification. A modification can be awarded when expenses, such as medical bills, arise as well.

Modifications adjust your payment amount to reflect your current ability to pay. To request a modification, you’ll need to demonstrate your change in circumstances and file a petition with the court. Also, for parents who have fallen behind but can now start making payments, setting up a payment plan may prevent further enforcement actions.

Talk to a Family Lawyer About Paths Forward

Working with a West Palm Beach family attorney can help you understand your options and present your case effectively in court. They can guide you through the modification process, assist with payment plan negotiations, and ensure that your rights are protected as you work to fulfill your responsibilities.

Do you want to have a conversation about what happens if you fall behind on child support? By taking proactive steps, you can avoid harsh penalties and demonstrate your commitment to supporting your child. Reach out to the legal team at Bruce S. Rosenwater & Associates to learn more. Schedule a confidential consultation today.