What Happens When You Don't Pay

  1. Avoid Missing Payments
  2. Consequences

Background Information

Paying court-ordered child support is your responsibility. Unpaid child support will still be owed - with interest.

Under California law, the person ordered to pay child support (obligor) is required to pay the court-ordered child support on time and in full. An obligor who cannot meet the full obligation or cannot make the court-ordered payments must contact this department as soon as possible to avoid or minimize any adverse actions that may be taken.

Lawmakers view child support as a very important issue. Based on the belief that children are our most valuable resource and our best hope for the future, both State and national lawmakers pass legislation each year emphasizing the importance of paying child support.

Child Support Enforcement

The State uses numerous tools to collect past due child support, which are defined on the next tab entitled, "Consequences".  Be aware of the actions that may take place, and remain diligent in paying your child support on time. If you are encountering difficulty remaining current in paying your court ordered child support, please contact our office immediately. 

Case Records

Each local child support agency is required to retain case records for four years and four months from the date of case closure unless there is an open federal or State audit or pending civil litigation pursuant to Family Code section 17312(c) and 22 California Code of Regulations section 111450. It is recommended for case participants to keep copies of checks, bank records, and pay receipts for a minimum of 20 years.