Missing child support payments could affect your life in a number of ways, whether your reputation becomes tarnished or you have difficulties as a result of losing your driving privileges. It is important to understand all of the potential penalties you could face if you fail to stay current on child support. In fact, you could lose the ability to successfully apply for a passport in the U.S.
If you have failed to pay support on time, take a look at options that can help you get caught up. If your financial circumstances have changed drastically, you could have the option to modify your child support order.
When does unpaid child support affect passport applications?
The Administration for Children and Families goes over the Passport Denial Program, which prevents parents who owe a certain amount of back child support from receiving U.S. passports. In fact, states collected almost $16 million worth of child support payments as a result of this program over the course of 2020.
If you owe at least $2,500 in back child support, the government could reject your passport application. In addition, the government could revoke your existing passport.
How can you address unpaid child support?
If you owe back child support and want to restore your passport privileges, or avoid having your passport revoked, address your situation promptly. Non-custodial parents who receive a notice can appeal, but you will likely have to make payment arrangements with the child support agency in your state for the government to remove you from this program. Make sure you deal with back support as soon as possible.