Can You Include Child Support in Bankruptcy?

Child support, and domestic support obligations in general, are non-dischargeable. However, that does not mean that there is no relief to be had if you are experiencing financial difficulty. Child support obligations can be made easier to manage through a chapter 13 personal reorganization.

Many times, people fall behind on child support obligations due to a period of unemployment, fewer hours at work, or other types of financial hardship. This often results in a wage withholding order that can cause you to fall behind on other financial obligations such as a vehicle or house note. What a personal reorganization can offer is to place all of these debts into one payment that you can afford. This allows you to keep your property while preventing you from falling farther behind in your financial obligations.

Also, if you are paying a child support obligation through a wage withholding order that you do not want changed but need the relief of a chapter 7 bankruptcy or a chapter 13 personal reorganization, don’t worry. You can maintain your payroll deduction for your child support obligation throughout either one.

Be sure to remember that regardless of your current situation, you have financial relief options. While things such as child support obligations, alimony, back taxes, and student loans cannot be wiped out in bankruptcy that does not mean that these obligations cannot be made easier through a personal reorganization.

Each person’s financial situation is unique and it is imperative that you speak with a qualified attorney before you make a decision. If you are interested in a personal reorganization or would just like to speak with someone with experience in the area, please contact our office nearest to you to set up a free private and confidential consultation visit with one of our licensed attorneys.