We recently discussed some ways Colorado Child Support Services (CSS) can act to make sure Longmont parents with custody of their children are receiving the support to which they are entitled. There is another type of action CSS can take though, which we will devote some additional time to discussing in detail. Here, we are talking about intercepts.
One widely-known type of intercept is the tax offset. If a parent is delinquent on child support payments, and that parent is receiving a tax refund — whether a federal refund from the IRS or a Colorado state tax refund — CSS can intercept those funds and direct them to back child support payments. This can be done even if the parent is making some payments.
Other common intercepts include income from gambling and lottery prizes. Whether money was won at a casino, race track or on a lottery ticket, CSS can intercept it. Even non-cash prizes and merchandise can be intercepted. Parents who earn an income from either the federal or state government and who owe back child support may also be subject to a CSS intercept. For example, if one’s ex-spouse works as a contractor for the state, or collects retirement benefits as a former federal employee, CSS could intercept those payments and apply the money instead to the delinquent child support amounts.
Whether an individual is a custodial parent receiving child support, or a non-custodial parent paying child support, it is important to be aware that these types of options are available to CSS once child support payments fall into arrears. A family law professional can also consult with parents in either situation regarding their specific legal rights and options.
Source: ChildSupport.State.Co.US, “Intercepts,” accessed on Feb. 2, 2018
