As with other types of government debt, the consequences can be severe if you don't pay. The Child Support Agency (CSA) or Child Maintenance Service (CMS) have the powers to deduct arrears and ongoing payments straight from your earnings or bank account. They have a wide range of other legal powers and as a last resort you can be imprisoned if you refuse to pay.
We understand that things are often tough for parents living apart from their children. However, it’s important to stay on top of your payments and treat them as one of your priority outgoings You need to make sure you pay this before any of your unsecured debts like credit cards or personal loans.
If you don’t pay what you owe, or make payment arrangements with the CMS / CSA, they can apply to the court for a ‘liability order’. This means further action can be taken to recover the debt.