In Florida, parents are legally required to provide financial support for their children. When child support payments are missed, the unpaid amount becomes child support arrears. These unpaid obligations can lead to serious legal consequences, including wage garnishment, loss of licenses, and even jail time.
If you owe child support arrears or are trying to collect past-due payments, understanding Florida’s laws on the topic is essential.
What Are Child Support Arrears?
Child support arrears are the total amount of unpaid child support that has accumulated over time. These payments do not go away and continue to add up until they are paid in full. Even if a child turns 18, a parent is still responsible for any outstanding arrears.
Some key points to know about child support arrears in Florida include:
- Court-ordered payments must be made: Even if the other parent is not allowing visitation, child support is still required.
- Interest may apply: Florida law allows interest to accrue on past-due child support, increasing the total amount owed.
- Arrears do not disappear: Unlike other debts, child support arrears cannot be discharged in bankruptcy.
If you fall behind on payments, it’s important to take action quickly to avoid severe penalties.
Consequences of Failing To Pay Child Support in Florida
The State of Florida takes child support enforcement seriously. If you owe arrears, the Florida Department of Revenue (DOR) can use several methods to collect unpaid support.
- Wage garnishment: The court may require your employer to withhold child support payments from your paycheck.
- Driver’s license suspension: Your license may be suspended until you make a payment or arrange a repayment plan.
- Seizure of tax refunds: The government may intercept your federal or state tax refund to cover unpaid child support.
- Liens on property: The court can place a lien on your home, vehicle, or other assets.
- Bank account freezes: Funds in your bank account may be taken to pay child support arrears.
- Jail time: In extreme cases, failure to pay child support can lead to contempt of court charges and possible jail time.
Because of these penalties, parents who owe back child support should seek legal guidance to explore their options for repayment.
How Can I Reduce or Eliminate Child Support Arrears?
If you have child support arrears, there may be ways to reduce or settle your debt. However, you must take action quickly, as arrears will not go away on their own.
Request a Payment Plan
Florida allows parents to set up a payment plan with the DOR to pay off past-due child support over time. This can help prevent wage garnishment and license suspension.
Seek a Child Support Modification
If you are struggling to make payments due to a job loss, illness, or other financial hardship, you may be able to request a modification of your child support order.
Negotiate a Settlement
In some cases, the other parent may agree to settle the arrears for a lower amount. If this happens, it must be approved by the court.
Speaking with a family law attorney can help determine the best option for resolving child support debt.
Contact the Orlando Child Support Law Firm of Conti Moore Law Divorce Lawyers, PLLC, for Help Today
If you owe child support arrears or are trying to collect past-due payments, an experienced Florida child support attorney can help. They can review your case, explain your legal rights, and guide you through the options available for reducing or enforcing child support obligations.
Don’t wait until penalties get worse—contact a lawyer today to explore solutions and protect your financial future.
For more information, contact our experienced Orlando child support lawyers at Conti Moore Law Divorce Lawyers, PLLC, by calling (407) 831-0203 to schedule a free consultation.
We serve all through Orange County and its surrounding areas. Visit our office at:
Conti Moore Law Divorce Lawyers, PLLC
815 N Magnolia Ave Suite 100
Orlando, FL 32803
(407) 831-0203
