Guide To Collect Unpaid Alimony
Almost 400,000 Americans receive alimony at any given time, so it is no surprise that some payments get missed, forgotten, or even ignored.
If you are receiving spousal support from an ex-partner, you need to know what to do if they neglect to pay. Read on to learn more about how to collect unpaid alimony.
What Is Alimony?
Alimony is money one spouse pays another before, during, or after a divorce. These payments ensure that hardships do not fall on one person alone. Sometimes, these payments are also made if one person cannot maintain the same lifestyle they lived pre-divorce.
There are a few popular alimony collection methods around today. One of the most popular is taking the money directly from their paycheck through an earnings assignment order.
Some people agree to get support payments directly from their partner. If you choose this option, consider contacting a lawyer to ensure you get the necessary payments.
How to Collect Unpaid Alimony: The Steps to Take
If your spouse stops paying alimony, then there are a few things you should do immediately. Here are the steps you need to take.
Figure Out Why the Payments Are Late
The first thing to do is understand why you aren’t receiving your payments. For example, if your ex has lost their job or is unable to work, they can reach out to a judge to suspend their payments until their situation is resolved.
If your partner has just stopped making payments, it’s time to take legal action.
If You Have Children, Reach Out to LCSA
You can contact the Local Child Support Agency (LCSA) if you are also receiving child support.
The LCSA can help you collect spousal and child support through an income withholding order. They have many resources to get you the money you deserve.
Hire an Attorney and File a Claim
Proving unpaid alimony is much easier with the help of an experienced lawyer. An alimony attorney can help you to fill out the correct legal paperwork and file a claim. Hiring an attorney can also allow you to focus on your life while the problem gets handled in the best way.
An expert family law attorney handling alimony cases can help you collect past-due alimony support payments. They can help you to determine the amount of alimony you should be compensated for. A judge can review the case and order your ex to make an additional monthly payment until this is paid off.
Get the Money You Deserve Today
If you are in a situation where your ex is not paying alimony, then you need to understand your legal rights. The expert lawyers at Dalena and Bosch are here to help you with your legal concerns.
If you have additional questions about collecting unpaid alimony or other family law issues, please feel free to contact Dalena & Bosch for more information.