Incarcerated Parents
When a parent is incarcerated, it’s hard on parents and children alike. Children still need the emotional and financial support of their parents. While a parent serves time, the ongoing obligation to make child support payments can become unmanageable. Looking at the whole picture can help parents stay connected with their children throughout this difficult experience.
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Family-centered focus
Managing the build up of child support debt can help parents more successfully manage regular payments after release.
Helping children understand what is happening in their family when a parent is in jail is important, as well. When family members talk with children about this experience, children can better address the concerns and stress they might feel.
Resources:
Top Incarcerated Parents Resources
Guide to Changing a Child Support Order (PDF)
A guide to help parents understand the child support review and modification processState by State - How to Change a Child Support Order
Published: March 5, 2014Provides state-specific information on how to change a child support orderRealistic Child Support Orders for Incarcerated Parents
Published: June 20, 2012Highlights opportunities to encourage incarcerated parents to engage with the child support systemJobs Not Jail
Published: October 5, 2015Graphically displays cost-benefit differences between providing job services and jailAccess to Justice Innovations
Published: June 20, 2012Profiles child support access to justice innovations including court facilitators, self-help hotlines, and online tools- More Resources >
Last Reviewed: June 27, 2016