If you have difficulty making child support payments on time, it is essential to have a clear understanding of the different consequences that could arise. Not only could you struggle with high levels of stress, but you could find yourself facing devastating court-imposed penalties.
Unfortunately, penalties that arise can make it even more difficult to pay child support. You could lose the ability to drive and you could even have to spend time behind bars.
The penalties for falling behind on child support
The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services covers different penalties that parents face when they do not pay child support on time. For example, you could lose your licenses, such as your driver’s license, professional license and hunting or fishing license. The state could report your debt to credit bureaus, you could lose your tax refunds and you could face a lien on your property.
In addition, missing child support payments can result in the denial or revocation of a passport and a jail sentence.
Addressing child support issues
If you face challenges related to child support payments, it is essential to have a clear understanding of your options. Whether you have already fallen behind or you worry about becoming delinquent in the near future, you should do everything in your power to address child support issues properly. In some instances, this could mean setting up a payment plan to get caught up. If you have lost your job or face financial hardships for some other reason, modifying your child support order could help you stay current and avoid serious penalties.