I am disabled and get disability benefits. Do I still have to pay child support?

You should not have to pay child support if you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

You may have to pay child support out of your check if you receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).

  • If you do not pay, Social Security can garnish part of your benefit. The largest amount they can garnish is 65%.
  • NOTE: If your child receives benefits on your record, then the court can consider that in deciding whether to lower your support amount. You will have to file a Petition to ask the court to change the amount of support you are ordered to pay. To find out which Petition you should use, see I can’t afford my child support payment. Can I lower the amount?.

Generally, your VA disability compensation benefit (service-connected) cannot be garnished to pay for child support. Exception: Your benefit can be garnished if you waived part of your military retired pay to receive VA disability benefits.

Are you a Hillsborough County renter having housing problems? Help is available!

The Hillsborough County Housing Stability Program provides Hillsborough tenants the knowledge, resources, and services to effectively, efficiently, and amicably solve their disputes with their landlords outside the court system.

Man on porch

The Legal Information Center is a free program to provide information to people who are representing themselves in Family Law cases in Hillsborough County. Get the information you need to make an informed decision about your case.

Legal Information Center

Apply for Services

If you live or have a case in Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas, Manatee, or Sarasota counties, we may be able to help.

How do I apply? Am I eligible?