# Dad Avoided Child Support for Decades

> A parent’s $200,000 child support debt surfaces after years of evasion.
- Title: Dad Avoided Child Support for Decades · Slate Magazine
- Summary: A parent’s $200,000 child support debt surfaces after years of evasion. A parent who avoided paying child support for decades faces a $200,000 debt that…
- Keywords: child support, child support debt, financial support, advice column, pay dirt, societal support, family finance, child support collection, financial planning, college funds, adhd support, career coaching
- Source: Slate Magazine — https://slate.com/advice/2026/09/money-advice-getting-back-child-support.html?via=rss
- Author: Ilyce Glink
- Published: 2026-09-28T10:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: child support, child support debt, financial support, advice column, pay dirt, societal support, family finance, child support collection, financial planning, college funds, adhd support, career coaching
## Child Support Debt
A parent avoided paying child support for decades, now owing over $200,000.
## Dad Inherited Money
The parent recently inherited a large sum that was garnished during probate.
## 98% Chance of Collection
There is a 98 percent chance the money will be collected within months.
## Tara’s Situation
Tara, 19, has ADHD, poor impulse control, and struggled with school and college.
## Bryce’s Situation
Bryce, 17, is focused on college and scholarships, needing financial support.
## Tara’s Needs
Tara needs career coaching to identify strengths and build executive functioning skills.
## Bryce’s Needs
Bryce needs college savings to fund his education without tax penalties.
## 529 Plan Options
529 plans allow tax-free growth for education, with flexibility for unused funds.
## Next Steps
The parent should prioritize college savings for Bryce and career coaching for Tara.
## Key takeaway

A parent who avoided paying child support for decades faces a $200,000 debt that could be collected soon.