Ohio Offers Relief to Parents Behind on Child Support

By Sheryl Rentz on August 9, 2010

The dire states of the economy and job market have led to financial hardship for many people. For parents in Ohio who are behind on their child support and unable to make payments, the Licking County Child Support Enforcement Agency is hoping that an array of options will help change that. According to a NewarkAdvocate.com article, the agency is considering arrear waivers for individuals financially unable to pay, community service programs that will help pay down amounts owed for parents who may be unemployed, and forgiveness of a certain portion of the amount of child support due for those individuals who qualify. Reportedly, because amounts owed are already paid to the parent who cares for the child, any waiver or reduction of payment would be taken as a loss by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, with no children being affected whatsoever.

While unemployment and other financial hardships are making it difficult for individuals across the country to make child support, the well being of one’s child should always be taken into account. Appropriate steps should be taken to ensure that at least a portion of an agreed upon amount of child support is paid each month. The law is very strict when it comes to enforcing child support payments in Pennsylvania. Consequently, the punishment for those who fail to make payments can be very severe. In the event that a parent refuses to make an effort to arrange for payment, an enforcement application can be filed with the court, and a variety of penalties may be imposed.

In Pennsylvania, there are legal options available for parents who have fallen behind on payments, yet want to make amends for past due amounts. For more information about child support arrangements in Pennsylvania, please contact the Law Offices of Sheryl R. Rentz today at 610-645-0100. Our experienced Pennsylvania family law attorneys offer free and completely confidential consultations, and are prepared to help you with your situation.