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).

• However, if you were ordered to pay support and later start receiving SSI, you will have to file a Petition to ask for the court to stop the support. See above to find out which Petition you should use.

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. See above to find out which Petition you should use.

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.