Credit Reporting
The Child Support Program reports past-due support to consumer reporting agencies (or credit bureaus). The Program reports to Innovus, Experian, TransUnion and Equifax.
If the past-due balance is equal to or greater than two times the monthly child support obligation or if there is a past-due amount of at least $400, the Child Support Program sends the parent a notice with options on how to avoid reporting. The parent has 25 days from the date on the notice to do one of the following:
- Pay the past-due amount in full and stay current with future payments
- Enter into a payment agreement. Parents can request online or by email; or
- Provide documentation that the parent who owes support:
- Receives reemployment assistance or unemployment compensation;
- Is disabled and incapable of supporting themselves;
- Receives Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits;
- Receives Social Security Disability Income (SSD) benefits;
- Receives temporary cash assistance; or
- Has filed bankruptcy under Chapter 11, 12 or 13 of the United States Bankruptcy Code; or
- File a contest in circuit court
If there is no payment or contact within 25 days from the date on the notice, the past-due support amount will remain on the parent's credit report until it is paid in full.
