When Child Support Payments Stop
When child support payments stop, it can create immediate financial strain. In South Carolina, court-ordered child support is not optional — failure to pay is a violation of a court order.
The good news is that Lexington parents have several legal tools to enforce payment and protect their children’s needs.
Common Reasons Payments Stop
Not every missed payment is intentional. Some parents fall behind because of:
- Job loss or reduced income.
- Health issues or unexpected expenses.
- Miscommunication about payment methods.
- Willful refusal to pay.
Regardless of the reason, the legal obligation remains until the court modifies or terminates the order.
How South Carolina Enforces Child Support
The South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS) and the family court can take strong action to collect unpaid support. These may include:
- Wage garnishment — automatically deducting payments from paychecks.
- Interception of tax refunds or lottery winnings.
- Driver’s license suspension for continued nonpayment.
- Contempt of court, which can result in fines or jail time.
In Lexington County, judges take nonpayment seriously because it directly affects a child’s welfare.
What You Should Do If Payments Stop
If your ex stops paying, don’t try to handle it informally. Instead:
- Document every missed payment. Keep bank statements and payment logs.
- Contact an attorney. A lawyer can file an enforcement motion or rule to show cause in family court.
- Avoid taking matters into your own hands. Withholding visitation or retaliating can backfire legally.
An attorney can help you pursue enforcement while ensuring your child’s needs continue to be met.
How to Recover Unpaid Support
South Carolina courts can order retroactive payments for all missed months, plus interest. If your ex continues to ignore the order, the court can garnish wages, seize property, or even hold them in custody until payments resume.
In some cases, DSS may help collect arrears, but having your own attorney often speeds up the process.
Quick FAQs
Can child support be forgiven in South Carolina?
No. Arrears don’t go away unless the court modifies or vacates the debt.
What if my ex moves out of state?
South Carolina can coordinate with other states to enforce payment under federal law.
Can I withhold visitation if they don’t pay?
No. Custody and support are separate legal issues — withholding visitation can hurt your case.
If your ex has stopped paying child support, don’t wait for the problem to grow. Call The Farley Law Firm today to schedule a confidential consultation and learn how to enforce your order in Lexington family court.
Disclaimer
This information is for general education only and is not legal advice. Schedule a consultation to discuss your situation.
