Child support is a critical resource for parents across Texas. It ensures both parents provide economic support for their children when they are parenting separately. However, not all parents keep up with these financial obligations. Whether a parent is intentionally delinquent or falls behind, nonpayment puts strain on the recipient parent and violates the court order.
If you are a Texas parent who has not received child support, the Office of the Attorney General can take certain steps to collect payments.
Forceful ways to ensure payment
Enforcement actions can disrupt a non-paying parent’s life until they catch up on their arrears. These actions target their finances, their ability to travel and even their professional standing. Depending on the situation, they may involve:
- Wage withholding orders: This sends a direct request to an employer to take support straight from a paycheck.
- License suspension: The state can freeze driver’s, fishing or professional licenses until a parent makes payments.
- Contempt of court: A judge may order jail time or steep fines for those who ignore court orders.
- Passport denial: If the debt is high enough, the federal government can block international travel.
- Property liens: A lien can be placed on a house or land, making it hard for them to sell assets without paying you first.
These measures serve as a firm reminder that financial obligations to your child are not optional.
Putting the law to work for you
You have the power to demand the support your child was promised by the court. If you wish to pursue enforcement actions, understand that it is a technical process that requires specific evidence and organized paperwork. Be sure that you keep diligent records of payments missed and made, bills and relevant receipts. Collect contact information for the paying parent, a copy of your support order and any other paperwork to support your claim.
It can also be wise to consult an attorney who can file the formal motions for enforcement and calculate the exact amount of unpaid child support arrears plus any applicable interest. Having a legal advocate helps ensure that you handle procedural steps correctly so your case stays on track.