What is the process for collecting unpaid child support?

The process for collecting unpaid child support typically involves several steps that the Child Support Agency may undertake to ensure that children receive the financial assistance they need. Initially, when a non-custodial parent fails to make child support payments, the custodial parent can report this lapse to the Child Support Agency. The Agency will then investigate the situation, which includes verifying the amount owed and the payment history. Once the amount of unpaid child support is confirmed, the Agency may move forward with various enforcement actions. One common method is wage garnishment, which allows the Agency to collect unpaid support directly from the non-custodial parent's paycheck before they receive their wages. Additionally, the Agency may seek to intercept tax refunds owed to the non-custodial parent, redirecting those funds to cover the unpaid child support. In more severe cases, the Agency may consider other enforcement methods such as suspending the non-custodial parent's driver's license, professional licenses, or even taking legal action that can result in court proceedings. The Agency may also report the unpaid child support to credit bureaus, which can negatively impact the parent's credit score. It is essential for custodial parents to keep thorough records of all communication and payments, as this information can be vital in enforcement actions. For specific details about processes or regulations that may apply in unique situations, interested parties can refer to the relevant sections of the Child Support Agency's web page for further guidance.