How Child Support Is Enforced

When the non­custodial parent doesn`t pay the full amount, or doesn`t pay at all, enforcement action is necessary. The FSD or local child support agency strives to make sure that child support payments are regularly made and in the correct amount and that health insurance, if ordered, is provided for the child.

In reviewing the file to determine the best method of enforcement, the FSD or local child support agency`s first concern is establishing a regular payment plan for current support. Collection of arrearages (past­due support) is the secondary concern. The best method of enforcement is selected based on all the information in the case including the non­custodial parent`s income, and what kind of assets he/she has.

The FSD or local child support agency will try to get the non­custodial parent to voluntarily pay. Sometimes regular and full payments are received from the non­custodial parent in response to regular monthly billings or telephone reminders from the FSD or local child support agency.