When does child support obligation begin?

When does a father’s child support obligation begin? Does it take a court order? What if there isn’t a court order but a dad doesn’t pay support?

A father’s legal obligation to pay child support begins when there is an order put into place. If there’s no written agreement or court order, then he is not yet under such a legal obligation. Also, action can be brought once an order is in effect for a retroactive child support award for up to three years preceding the date of the institution of the support action.

Thank you Crystal.

You are welcome!