Log in

View Full Version : Is a wife responsible for her husband's past due child support?


SpiceRite
Jan 17, 2012, 02:48 PM
Are Injured Spouses responsible for their husband's child support liens (including by wage garnishments and bank account holds)?

JudyKayTee
Jan 17, 2012, 03:02 PM
"Injured spouse" is an IRS term. Are you asking about taxes?

No, a wife is NOT responsible for the husband's child support obligation BUT anything held jointly CAN be frozen/seized, and that includes JOINT bank accounts.

SpiceRite
Jan 17, 2012, 03:07 PM
@JudyKayTee-Thanks, I knew it was an IRS term, but I wasn't sure if my wages could be garnished. Our joint bank account was frozen a few days ago for an amount that was double what he owes. The AG's office said they do that to get the attention of the debtor, but it also affects ME too. My husband's son is now 28 years old. We currently have minor children to care for. I wasn't sure if my wages could be garnished or my personal account also frozen (if my husband isn't on it).

Fr_Chuck
Jan 17, 2012, 03:27 PM
No, joint account can be frozen, but not your accounts he is not on. ** unless it is found that he is hiding his money in it, so don't allow him to deposit his money there.

SpiceRite
Jan 17, 2012, 03:43 PM
Ok, thanks.

JudyKayTee
Jan 17, 2012, 04:27 PM
@JudyKayTee-Thanks, I knew it was an IRS term, but I wasn't sure if my wages could be garnished. Our joint bank account was frozen a few days ago for an amount that was double what he owes. The AG's office said they do that to get the attention of the debtor, but it also affects ME too. My husband's son is now 28 years old. We currently have minor children to care for. I wasn't sure if my wages could be garnished or my personal account also frozen (if my husband isn't on it).


I think that's the Government policy of "Let the wife starve by freezing her bank account for something SHE doesn't owe." I'd be a LOT more upset than you are!

Well, they got your attention!

No, your wages are safe. Obviously don't put anything into a joint account AND if YOUR bank account is frozen RUN to the bank with proof that it's not your debt.