What to do next
Document the arrears precisely
Record what was owed, what was paid, and the dates. A clear, dated payment history is the foundation of any enforcement step.
Use the enforcement service
Support enforcement programs exist in US states and Canadian provinces (for example Ontario's Family Responsibility Office, or Quebec's collection service through Revenu Québec) and can garnish wages and intercept payments without you going to court yourself.
Get legal advice if it continues
Where non-payment persists or the payer's income has genuinely changed, a family lawyer can advise on enforcement in court or on a variation application — and on the risks of doing nothing.
Frequently asked questions
Can I stop parenting time because support isn't paid?
No. Support and parenting time are separate obligations. Withholding a child's time with a parent can put you in breach of your own order.
What powers do enforcement agencies have?
Typically wage garnishment, bank and tax-refund interception, credit reporting, and in some jurisdictions licence suspension. Powers vary by state and province.
What if my ex genuinely can't pay?
A material change in income can justify varying the order — but that requires an application, not simply stopping payment. Arrears generally continue to accrue until varied.
Do arrears expire?
Support arrears are treated seriously and are often enforceable long after they accrue, though limitation rules vary. Get advice rather than assuming they've lapsed.
This is general information, not legal advice. Laws vary by location and every situation is different — speak with a qualified lawyer about your specific circumstances.