Child support plays a vital role in helping to cover the costs of raising a child. If an ex-partner stops paying, it can create financial difficulties. In Indiana, several options exist to ensure that the court-ordered child support gets paid.
Contact the child support enforcement office
In Indiana, the Child Support Bureau handles the enforcement of child support orders. If payments stop, you can contact the Indiana Child Support Division to report the non-payment. The agency will send reminders or take legal steps to enforce the support order.
Request a modification of the order
If a parent’s financial situation changes, such as losing a job, they may struggle to make payments. In such cases, you can request a modification of the child support order through the court. The court will review the circumstances and decide whether to adjust the support amount.
Garnishment of wages
Wage garnishment provides one of the most effective ways to ensure payment. If your ex fails to pay, the court may order wage garnishment. This means the court will deduct payments directly from their wages and send them to you, which ensures consistent support.
Contempt of court
When the non-payment continues, the court may hold the paying parent in contempt. This can result in fines, wage garnishment, or even jail time. Courts take contempt of court seriously, and it serves as a tool when a parent deliberately ignores the support order.
When child support payments stop, taking action is necessary to ensure the child’s needs get met. Using the available tools through Indiana’s child support enforcement system can help resolve the situation.