Child support is a legal obligation ordered by the court. Texas law provides ways to enforce the order, making sure children receive the support they need. When payments stop, Texas law has several actions to help implement the child support order.
Consequences for not paying child support
Unpaid child support, also called arrears, is a debt that does not go away. It accrues a 6% yearly interest until paid. When a parent fails to pay, the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) can take action. The OAG uses enforcement tools to encourage payment, including:
- License suspension: The state can suspend the non-paying parent’s driver’s license and other licenses (like professional or fishing licenses) if they do not pay.
- Passport denial: A parent who owes child support might not be able to get a new or renewed passport until they catch up on payments
- Liens on property: The state can place a lien on the non-paying parent’s property or bank accounts to secure the owed child support.
- Vehicle registration hold: The court could block the non-paying parent’s vehicle registration renewal if they missed payment for six months.
The court can also find a parent in contempt for not paying. This can lead to fines, probation or even jail time. In extreme cases, Texas will issue arrest warrants. It may also publicly list parents who owe substantial amounts of support.
Steps to enforce a child support order
If the other parent stops paying, you have options. You can ask the Texas OAG’s Child Support Division for help to enforce the order. The OAG can step in to collect the payments. You can also contact your local child support office or use the online portal to report missed payments. The OAG can then use these enforcement methods to recover support.
But the OAG is not your only option and often, not enough. Consider getting the help of a family law attorney. They can help you understand your rights and build a stronger enforcement case. They could also help negotiate payment plans or pursue legal remedies based on your situation.
No parent should have to fight for support alone. With the right legal guidance and state resources, you can protect your child’s well-being and have peace of mind.