The consequences of failing to pay child support on time include interest and penalty amounts assessed by the child support services division of your state’s Office of Attorney General, the department of revenue, or other government agency responsible for enforcing child support payments on behalf of the state. Penalties may also include court action (civil and criminal contempt charges); suspension of the obligor’s driver’s license; reporting the delinquency to creditor reporting agencies; denial or suspension of the obligor’s passport privileges; and liens on the obligor’s properties, bank accounts, life insurance plans, retirement plans, personal injury claims, and other assets.

In Georgia, failing to pay child support on time can result in various penalties enforced by the Division of Child Support Services (DCSS) under the Department of Human Services. Interest may accrue on unpaid child support. The DCSS has the authority to take enforcement actions such as suspending the non-paying parent's driver's license, professional or occupational licenses, and recreational licenses. The agency can also report the delinquency to credit bureaus, intercept tax refunds, place liens on property, and seize assets. In severe cases, non-payment can lead to contempt of court charges, which can be either civil or criminal, potentially resulting in fines or imprisonment. Additionally, the DCSS can deny, suspend, or restrict passport privileges for those who owe more than $2,500 in child support. These measures are intended to compel compliance with child support orders and ensure that children receive the financial support they are entitled to.