For thousands of parents across Texas, an overdue child support balance can trigger a consequence few expect: denial or revocation of their U.S. passport. Under federal law, parents who owe $2,500 or more in past-due child support can be barred from obtaining or keeping a passport — often without advance warning.
The program, established under 42 U.S.C. § 652(k), works through a chain of agencies. In Texas, the Office of the Attorney General certifies delinquent cases to the federal Office of Child Support Services, which then notifies the U.S. Department of State. No court hearing is required. Many parents discover they have been certified only when they attempt to apply for or renew a passport.
The $2,500 threshold applies to the total arrearage balance — not a single missed payment. A parent paying $800 per month who falls four months behind can cross that line quickly. Once certified, the consequences extend beyond travel: certain jobs requiring a passport as identification, including offshore and federal contractor positions, may also be affected.
Removing the certification requires either paying the full arrearage or entering an approved payment arrangement with the Attorney General’s office. Even after payment is confirmed, administrative processing between agencies can take 30 to 90 days — meaning a passport is not immediately restored.
For custodial parents, the program is a legitimate enforcement tool. Those owed support can contact the OAG to confirm whether their case is certified and request action if it is not. In situations where a co-parent may attempt to leave the country, additional protections — including the Children’s Passport Issuance Alert Program — may also be available.
Family law attorneys advise both sides to act proactively. Obligors who believe their balance is incorrect should seek legal counsel to review their account before the denial becomes a larger problem. Custodial parents with unresolved arrearages should confirm enforcement mechanisms are in place.
Child support enforcement has long reach — and in this case, that reach extends to the border.
