If you pay child support and have recently lost your job, there are steps you can take to address the situation and ensure that you are still able to meet your child support obligations.
First, it is important to notify the appropriate authorities as soon as possible. In Massachusetts, you would need to contact the Department of Revenue’s Child Support Enforcement Division (DOR/CSE) to let them know about your change in circumstances. This will allow them to adjust your child support obligation, if necessary, based on your new income.
It is also important to try to find a new source of income as soon as possible. This could include applying for unemployment benefits, looking for a new job, or pursuing other sources of income such as freelance work or a part-time job.
In the meantime, it is important to continue making child support payments to the best of your ability. If you are unable to make a full payment, you should still try to make partial payments to show that you are making an effort to meet your obligations.
If you are unable to make child support payments due to a temporary financial hardship, you may be able to request a modification of your child support order. This could include a temporary reduction in your child support obligation until you are able to get back on your feet financially.
It is important to remember that failure to pay child support can have serious consequences, including wage garnishment, loss of driver’s license or professional license, and even jail time. If you are facing financial challenges and are unable to make child support payments, it is important to take action and seek help as soon as possible.
Don’t forget to be smart with how you communicate this information to your child’s other parent. Check out this post to find out more about why communicating in writing is imperative in situations like this.