Consequences of Not Paying Child Support in Alberta

Consequences of Not Paying Child Support in Alberta

Child support is a legal obligation in Alberta, designed to provide financial support for the well-being and upbringing of a child following the separation or divorce of their parents. The court determines the amount of child support based on the Alberta Child Support Guidelines, taking into account various factors including the income of the paying parent and the number of children to be supported. Failing to meet these obligations can result in serious legal and financial consequences for the non-compliant parent.

Legal Repercussions

One of the immediate consequences of not paying child support in Alberta is facing legal action. The Maintenance Enforcement Program (MEP) in Alberta is responsible for ensuring that child support payments are made as ordered by the court. If a parent fails to make the required payments, MEP has the authority to take various legal actions to enforce the order. These actions can include garnishing wages, intercepting federal payments such as tax refunds, placing liens on property, and even suspending the non-paying parent’s driver’s license.

Credit Score Impact

Failing to pay child support can also have a significant impact on an individual’s credit score. Since unpaid support can be reported to credit bureaus, it can negatively affect the ability to obtain loans, secure mortgages, or apply for credit cards. This can have long-term implications on a person’s financial health and ability to make future purchases.

Travel and Passport Restrictions

Parents who are delinquent in their child support payments may also face restrictions on their ability to travel. The Alberta MEP has the authority to deny the issuance or renewal of a passport to anyone who owes more than $3,000 in child support. This can severely limit an individual’s freedom to travel outside Canada until the outstanding amount is paid or a payment plan is negotiated.

Legal and Custodial Consequences

Non-payment of child support can also influence the legal and custodial arrangements concerning the child. While child support and custody are treated as separate legal issues, consistent failure to fulfill financial responsibilities may impact a parent’s credibility and reliability in the eyes of the court. This could potentially affect future custody or visitation rights, as courts consider the best interests of the child in making these determinations.

Conclusion

The consequences of not paying child support in Alberta are far-reaching, affecting not only the legal and financial standing of the non-compliant parent but also the well-being of the child involved. It is crucial for parents to understand their obligations and to seek legal assistance if they are unable to meet them. Proactively communicating with legal authorities and the other parent can often lead to arrangements that prevent the severe consequences of non-payment.