Bank Levies & Property Liens
Quick answer
Unpaid Texas child support can be collected by levying a parent’s bank account and by recording liens on their real property — a lien can block a sale or refinance until the arrears are paid (Family Code §§ 157.311–157.331).
When arrears build up, two collection tools reach a parent's assets directly: levies on bank accounts and liens on real property.
Bank levies
Agencies or courts can seize funds from bank accounts to satisfy arrears. Some funds may be exempt, so it's important to know your state's rules before an account is frozen.
Property liens
A recorded lien attaches to real property and can block a sale or refinance until the arrears are satisfied or the lien is released. Texas child support liens arise under Family Code §§ 157.311–157.331 and can reach real property, accounts, and other non-exempt assets.
Prevention
Keep arrears low with an approved payment plan, keep exempt funds in a separate account, and respond quickly to any notice — waiting is what turns a manageable balance into a levy.
If you need a attorney for child support to collect what you're owed, Sinkin Law Firm handles collection and enforcement cases — and on those, you don't pay our fees.
Owed child support in Texas?
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