Child support can be a lifesaver when it comes to expensive diapers, babysitting
fees and groceries, but what happens when your ex-spouse simply won’t
pay? Luckily, there are options available to you. Here are some things
you might want to consider doing if your ex won’t pay child support.
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Get the child support in writing: Child support obligations are created by court orders. If you don’t
already have a formal written agreement with your ex, you need to go to
court and get it in writing.
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Talk to your ex-spouse: You don’t have to talk to them if there is friction between the
two of you, but it doesn’t hurt to try. Negotiating with them is
quicker and cheaper than many other options of getting child support money.
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Keep the other parent involved anyways: You may feel like pushing someone who isn’t paying child support
away, but it’s not a good move. By keeping them involved in your
children’s daily activities and other things going on, that helps
your ex stay invested in your children and they may be more likely to
pay child support when they can afford it.
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Don’t depend on child support: If your ex isn’t dependable, never build their child support payments
into your budget. Keep it separate, that way if it stops, it won’t
hurt your child. Any money you do get from your ex can be saved.
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Ask your ex to at least pay some: If they can’t pay all of the child support, ask them to pitch in
what they can. Some money is better than no money and eventually, if you
go to court, they may still have to pay back what they owe.
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Get the courts involved: If your ex isn’t making any effort to pay, a county sheriff can
begin enforcing child support after six months of non-payment. With the
help of a lawyer, you can get the courts to garnish your ex’s wages,
withhold their tax refunds, suspend their professional license or even
toss them in jail.
To speak to one of our Houston child support attorneys
at the Law Office of Kathryn Marteeny, call (713) 936-2300 or contact us online.