Collecting Back Child Support

Frequently Asked Questions

• My ex is out of a job and hasn’t paid child support for over a year. I’m also struggling financially. What can I do?

You can apply for government assistance such as WIC. Another alternative is to reach out to organizations that assist needy families.

• I am owed thousands in back child support, but my child’s other parent is self-employed and hiding assets. I know he can pay support but chooses not to. How do I collect?

You may contact the state agency. They are efficient with uncovering assets and will place a lien on the paying parent’s properties. These assets include houses, cars, and even their salary. Once their information is submitted to the enforcement agency, it will look for the paying parent.

• I took reduced child support payments from my ex for a few years, but now that she’s got a good job I’d like her to pay the difference. Did I waive my right to collect past due support by collecting a reduced amount?

This sounds like modification. If you would like to modify your child support order, file the appropriate document with the court clerk. Talk to an attorney about your specific case. If there is no previous order, you may still be able to collect on the difference. The judge has discretion based on certain factors to order payment for a child support that is based on child support guideline. According to the Texas Family code, there is a standard percentage guideline. Also, the court considers whether the reduced amount was in the best interest of the child.