When a parent falls behind on child support payments, Texas law provides several powerful mechanisms to enforce it and hold the noncustodial parent accountable. If you are seeking unpaid child support, understanding your available options and the consequences of nonpayment is key to protecting your child’s well-being.
Immediate enforcement tools
The most common enforcement tool is a wage withholding order, where the state directs an employer to deduct child support directly from the other parent’s paycheck. This helps ensure consistent payments and reduces the need for repeated reminders or collection efforts.
Texas can also take away a nonpaying parent’s licenses if child support is overdue and will only return them when the arrears are addressed. This can include driver’s licenses, professional licenses and even hunting or fishing licenses.
Another possible consequence is passport denial. If unpaid support reaches more than $2,500, the U.S. state Department can refuse to issue or renew a passport until the other parent brings their debt under control.
The financial implications
Unpaid child support accumulated before January 1, 2026, earns a six percent simple annual interest, while arrears accrued on or after that date earn three percent in Texas. The other parent needs to understand that it is a debt that never goes away, even in bankruptcy. Additionally, credit bureaus can place liens on the noncustodial parent’s property, bank accounts or insurance settlements for overdue support payments.
Legal consequences of nonpayment
A judge can also find a parent with unpaid child support in contempt of court. If that happens, the judge may order the parent to pay the full amount owed, along with attorney’s fees. In some cases, the noncustodial parent may even face jail time.
It is also important to remember that child support and visitation are separate issues under Texas law. Even if the other parent is behind on payments, you cannot legally refuse visitation as a way to punish them or force payment.
Ensuring your child is provided for
Addressing unpaid child support must be done properly and through official channels. A lawyer can help you find the best path forward through the enforcement process.