What if the Child Support Paying Parent Moves Out of State?

 Posted on September 29, 2025 in Child Support

When a parent is ordered to pay child support, moving to another state does not erase that responsibility. Illinois law and federal rules ensure that support orders can be enforced no matter where a parent lives. If you are dealing with this situation, a legal representative can help. Our experienced DuPage County, IL child support lawyers will explain the laws that apply to these cases and help you take legal action if necessary.

Can Illinois Child Support Orders Cross State Lines?

A parent cannot escape child support by simply moving away. Illinois follows the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA), which outlines the rules for enforcing and modifying child support when parents live in different states. The law’s purpose is to ensure that only one valid child support order exists, even if families move.

Illinois courts can send the order to another state for enforcement. They can also ask another state’s court to help collect payments. The point is to protect your child’s financial needs regardless of where either parent lives.

How Does Illinois Enforce Child Support When a Parent Lives Out of State?

Illinois courts can enforce child support orders, even across state lines. Under 750 ILCS 5/505, child support is a legal obligation. Unpaid support can lead to serious consequences. If a parent moves, the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) Child Support Services unit can work with the child support agency in the new state. Enforcement methods they might use include:

• Wage garnishment, where the employer in the new state automatically withholds support from paychecks

• Interception of federal tax refunds to cover past-due support

• Suspension of driver’s or professional licenses for nonpayment

Modifying Child Support When a Parent Relocates

Life changes, and sometimes a child support order must be updated. For example, if a parent earns significantly more or less than they used to after the move, a modification may be necessary. Under 750 ILCS 5/510, either parent can request a modification when there is a substantial change in circumstances.

The key question is which state has the authority to change the order. Usually, the state that issued the original order keeps control as long as one parent or the child still lives there. If everyone has left Illinois, another state may take over jurisdiction. Working with a family law attorney can help you file in the right place and avoid delays.

What Happens if the Paying Parent Refuses To Pay Child Support?

If a parent refuses to pay child support after moving away, Illinois courts can still step in to enforce the order. Unpaid support continues to build and cannot be erased simply because someone left the state. A parent who refuses to pay may face fines, contempt of court findings, and even jail time in some cases.

Courts also have the authority to seize bank accounts, place liens on property, or report unpaid balances to credit agencies. In more serious situations, deliberately avoiding child support across state lines can lead to federal charges.

Contact a Wheaton, IL Child Support Attorney

At Andrew Cores Family Law Group, we have been helping families since 1996, guiding clients through these complex family issues. Attorney Andrew Cores brings not only decades of experience but also a leadership role in family law. He is a Fellow with the Collaborative Law Institute of Illinois and previously served on its TEC Committee. With this background, our team is prepared to handle your case with compassion and a focus on achieving the best outcome for your family. Call us today at 630-871-1002 to schedule a free consultation with experienced DuPage County, IL child support lawyers.