Do you think insurance payouts should go to back child support before the recipient? Does this change your view on injury settlements?

Start with these steps:
- Request your official arrears statement
- Keep documentation of payments
- Negotiate agreements with child support services if possible

If you owe, expect a chunk—possibly all—of your payout to get intercepted. You receive any leftovers after arrears are satisfied.

Think you might be at risk? Check your child support status with the California Department of Child Support Services before accepting any settlement.

Why this new step?
- Unpaid child support in California topped $17 billion
- Millions get overdue payments

Lawmakers act to close loopholes and get money to kids faster.

This covers car crashes, workplace injuries, and other accident settlements. No exceptions for "pain and suffering" money.

Personal injury payout coming? Insurers cross-check your name with the child support arrears database before you see a cent.

If you have unpaid child support, part—or all—of your settlement for pain and suffering goes straight to your child support debt first.