What Happens If I Can No Longer Pay Child Support?

In the unfortunate event that you would be laid off, the first thing you will want to do is modify or reduce your child support obligation. Since a layoff qualifies as an involuntary reduction in income you should qualify for reduction in payments. Unfortunately, the court doesn't have the authority to reduce your payment obligation retroactively beyond the date you file the petition for a reduction in payment. You should also seek an early hearing on your petition because you are obligated to pay your current child support payments until the court orders the reduced payment. For this reason, it is best to consult a family attorney about this right away while you still have the income.