614-241-2174A parent in Ohio who has overdue child support obligations may still be able to obtain a mortgage to purchase a home. While delinquent child support is considered a derogatory credit event and lowers one’s chances of obtaining a mortgage approval, there are some options.
It’s important that a parent who is delinquent in paying child support obtain a copy of their credit report. They need to know exactly what is being reported and whether their FICO score is within the requirements set by the mortgage lender. They should then use a home affordability calculator to determine if they’ll be able to afford a monthly mortgage payment in addition to paying overdue child support and any currents debts.
In July 2017, the three main credit reporting agencies modified how they reported tax or civil liens, including any judgments related to delinquent child support, on credit reports. As a result, delinquent child support may not appear on a credit report and may not have an impact on a credit score.
For a parent who has credit scores that are high enough for them to apply and qualify for a non-government or conventional loan, making overdue child support payments is not an issue that will automatically prevent them from qualifying for a loan. They will be required to report all of their existing support obligations in addition to the extra payment when they are completing a mortgage application.
A prospective homeowner who is delinquent with their child support payments may consult with a family law attorney about their legal options. The attorney may consider the factors of the case and recommend engaging in negotiation to settle disputes regarding child support determinations, including the amount of the payments.