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What happens if you don’t pay child support in Florida?

On Behalf of | Oct 1, 2014 | Child Support

A point of contention in many divorces is the amount of support one spouse will pay another. Even two parents who do want the best for their children may argue over child support payments, and there are times when the amount of child support required by an order becomes too much for one party to handle.

A change in circumstance or income can help someone receive an order for a child support modification, but it’s never a good idea to stop paying child support out of the blue. If child support is ordered and is not paid, then several consequences can occur. According to the Florida Department of Revenue, enforcement of child support orders involves actions that can impact someone’s life and credit.

When child support is delinquent, late notices are sent. After a certain time has passed and no payment is received, the state may take other actions, including withholding income to cover child support payments. Individuals can also experience suspended driver’s licenses and suspension of business licenses, both of which can make it hard to work and make an income to pay child support.

Other consequences could include interception of federal tax refunds, state lottery winnings or worker’s compensation payments. The state may also report the delinquency to credit bureaus or cause a passport to be denied.

In the end, not paying child support may cost someone more than he or she saves. Taking a legal path to child support remedies may be the better option, as support orders can be modified to fit current circumstances. In the end, child support should be about both parents doing their best to meet the needs of their children.

Source: Florida Department of Revenu, “Enforcement of Child Support Orders” Oct. 01, 2014

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