All About Unemployment & Child Support Payments

 

Unemployment has become a major issue due to the current COVID-19 situation. Many people have lost their jobs or have been furloughed due to the pandemic. With the reduction of income, it’s tough to make ends meet, let alone meet financial obligations like child support payments. In this blog, we’ll discuss what you need to know about unemployment and child support payments, and how a family law practice in Orlando, FL can help.

 

1. Unemployment Benefits and Child Support Payments

Unemployment benefits are considered income and must be included when calculating child support payments. If you receive unemployment benefits, a percentage of it may be used to pay for child support if you have a child support order already in place. It’s important to keep paying child support even if you’re receiving unemployment benefits, as non-payment can result in legal consequences like wage garnishments, tax refund capture, and even suspension of driver’s licenses.

2. Modifying Child Support Payments

If you’re facing financial hardships and can’t make your child support payments due to unemployment, you can file a motion to modify the child support payment amount. With the help of a family lawyer, you can request a temporary reduction or suspension of child support payments until you’re able to find a job or recover from the financial hardship. However, you need to prove that you’re facing financial hardship due to unemployment or loss of income.

3. Child Support Arrears

If you’re unable to make your child support payments and fall behind, the missed payments pile up as child support arrears. Even if you start receiving unemployment benefits after falling behind on payments, you’re still obligated to pay the arrears. If you’re unable to pay child support arrears, the court may order wage garnishments, tax refund captures, or even jail time.

4. Support for Custodial Parent

If you’re a custodial parent and you’re not receiving the required child support payments from the non-custodial parent due to unemployment, it can become a financial strain on you and the children. You should immediately contact a family law practice in Orlando, FL to take legal action and recover due payments. With the help of legal representation, you can enforce the existing child support order and make the non-custodial parent to pay the due child support amount.

5. Getting Legal Help

If you’re facing unemployment and child support payments, you need legal help to understand your rights and obligations. At Ilvento Law, our experienced family lawyers can help you modify existing child support orders, request temporary reductions, enforce child support orders, and more. We’ll analyze your situation, devise a legal strategy, and help you get the best outcome in your case.

 

Conclusion

Unemployment and child support payments require you to seek legal help in Orlando, FL to ensure you’re protected if you’re the paying or custodial parent. With the help of experienced family lawyers at Ilvento Law, you can understand your legal rights and obligations, and navigate the complex process with ease. If you're looking for family law practice in Orlando, FL, contact us today.