When Texas couples with children divorce and courts arrange for child custody, the non-custodial parent may receive a court order to pay child support to ensure any minor children resulting from the marriage continue to thrive.
The Attorney General of Texas website notes that it works with several dozen different licensing agencies that assist with enforcing child support payments and arrears. Texas residents behind in their payments may find their financial, travel and recreational rights curtailed until they pay off an existing arrears balance.
1. Refusal of passport renewal
A non-custodial Texas parent who is not up to date on his or her child support payments may have the right to a new or renewed passport revoked. This could seriously affect that individual’s right to travel for business or take international airline flights.
2. Multiple license suspensions
The State can suspend a variety of licenses for those who do not pay back child support or clear any owed arrears. This includes driving, hunting and other recreational licenses required to enjoy outdoor activities or hobbies.
3. Financial liens
Non-custodial parents with child support arrears may find liens on an array of financial awards, from insurance payouts to retirement savings and other bank accounts. The State can apply liens to almost any financial assets owned by the non-custodial parent to clear arrears.
Texas parents facing suspension of certain state privileges due to back child support can arrange for payment plans with the assistance of the Office of the Attorney General and by maintaining a positive relationship with the custodial parent to ensure they can maintain communication regarding child support needs.
