A harsh economic climate can mean that even the most experienced and qualified individuals may lose their job. Being unemployed is difficult enough, but it can be even more overwhelming if you have a child support obligation.
If you have recently found yourself unemployed due to circumstances that are no fault of your own, you may wonder how it will affect your child support payments. VeryWell Family does its best to address your most pressing questions and concerns at this difficult time in your life.
Unemployment benefits and child support
It is important to note that even if you do not have a job, the state still requires you to make your child support obligations. To ensure you can do so and take care of yourself, check with your local unemployment office to see if you qualify for benefits. If you do, you must notify the office of your current child support obligation. The office will then deduct your monthly payment from your check.
When you do not qualify for unemployment
It is not uncommon for individuals with considerable savings or assets to receive a denial for unemployment benefits. If the state determines that you are ineligible for unemployment, the best thing you can do is continue to work with the family courts and your child’s other parent during your job search. The courts may assess your finances to determine what you can pay, and may either temporarily reduce or halt child support payments.
It is important, during this time, that you document your ongoing job search. When you do secure a new job, continue to make child support payments by check until you are secure in your new position. Once you are confident you will keep your new job, elect to have support payments taken directly from your wages. Bear in mind that you may see a slight increase in the monthly amount to make up for your period of unemployment.
