Life can throw unexpected challenges your way, and for some in Tucson, AZ and Pima County, this may mean struggling to make a required child support payment. If you’re worried about falling behind, there are proactive steps you can take to address the situation. Here’s what to know about common reasons for financial hardship, your legal options, and what can happen if you don’t take action.

Common Reasons for Child Support Struggles

Being unable to afford child support is more common than you might think. Here are a few situations where financial hardship can arise:

Job Loss or Reduced Hours – Losing your job or having your hours cut can significantly impact income.
Medical Emergencies – Unexpected medical bills or serious injuries can strain your finances and impact your ability to work.
Rising Costs – Increasing expenses for housing, food, and transportation can make payments harder to afford.
Debt Overload – High credit card or loan debt can eat into the income you need for child support.

Your Legal Options if You Can’t Afford Child Support

If you’re unable to meet your child support payments, taking legal action sooner rather than later is essential. Here’s what you can do:

Request a Modification – If your financial situation has changed, such as losing a job or experiencing a medical emergency, you can petition the court to lower your child support payments. Be prepared to support your claim with documentation, such as termination letters or medical bills.
Consult a Family Law Attorney – A child support lawyer like Hector A. Montoya can guide you through the process, file the proper paperwork, and represent you in court if needed.
Set up a Payment Plan – Courts may allow payment plans to catch up on overdue payments and show your intent to comply.
Explore State Programs – Arizona and other states offer resources like job training programs or financial support for those struggling to pay child support.
Apply for Unemployment – If you’re unemployed, apply for unemployment benefits. Arizona allows up to 50% of unemployment payments to go toward child support, helping you avoid falling too far behind.

Acting promptly can help you avoid penalties and show the court you take your obligation seriously.

Consequences of Not Taking Action

Ignoring your child support payments won’t make them go away. Failure to pay and not taking proactive measures to get back on track can come with severe consequences. Individuals with unpaid child support in Arizona could potentially face:

Debt accumulation
Wage garnishment
Tax refund interception
Suspension of driver’s license:
Passport denial
Legal action
Jail time
Credit damage

Facing Financial Hardship? We Can Help

If you’re struggling to afford payments, contact the Law Office of Hector A. Montoya, P.L.L.C., to speak with a child support attorney in Tucson, AZ, and Pima County. We understand the financial challenges parents face, and with more than 30 years of experience, we can guide you through the legal process of requesting modifications and finding solutions. Contact us today for a consultation, and we’ll discuss your concerns while putting your child’s best interests first.