Interest on Child Support Arrears in Wisconsin: Rate, Simple vs. Compound and When It Applies
Wisconsin child support interest is 0.5% a month (6% a year) on past-due support, starting when it equals one month of support, and it is charged even while you pay.
Does Wisconsin charge interest on child support arrears?
Yes. The state says Wisconsin law requires interest charges of 0.5% a month, or 6% a year, on past-due support, beginning when the past-due amount equals or exceeds the amount due in one month (DCF).
How is the Wisconsin interest amount worked out?
Interest is charged on the past-due amount. The state’s example: with a $300 monthly order and $500 owed, $200 is past due and interest is charged on that $200. The Wisconsin arrears calculator applies that month by month.
| Scenario at 6% simple, no payments | Interest | Total owed |
|---|---|---|
| 12 unpaid installments of $500 | $165.00 | $6,165.00 |
| 24 unpaid installments of $500 | $690.00 | $12,690.00 |
| 36 unpaid installments of $500 | $1,575.00 | $19,575.00 |
Each figure assumes no payments.
Does Wisconsin interest run while I am paying?
Yes. Interest is charged even if the parent is paying on the debt (DCF). A payment plan helps stop other actions, but it does not stop interest.
What is not charged interest in Wisconsin?
Unpaid birth costs and fees (DCF).
Is Wisconsin child support interest simple or compound?
The state describes a monthly charge on the past-due amount, not on interest, and the calculator uses simple interest. Ask the county agency how your account is computed.
Can a court change the interest already charged?
The statute we read bars revising arrearages that accrued before notice of a revision action, except for calculation errors (Wis. Stat. 767.59(1m)), so ask the county agency to correct any arithmetic mistake in the interest shown.
Is there a payment that stops interest?
Only paying the past-due support; a payment plan does not stop interest, but it stops several enforcement actions if you follow it (DCF).
What example does the state give?
A $300 monthly order with $500 owed has $200 past due, and interest is charged on that $200; the first $300 is treated as the month currently due (DCF).
Does interest start on the first missed payment?
No. It begins when the past-due support equals or exceeds the amount due in one month (DCF). A single month late produces no interest in the calculator.
Does the state charge interest on fees?
No. Interest is not charged on unpaid birth costs or fees (DCF).
Where do you get the official figure?
From your county child support agency or the clerk of court. See whether arrears can be changed and file to modify if your circumstances changed.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Wisconsin interest rate on child support arrears?
Half a percent a month, 6% a year, on past-due support.
Does Wisconsin charge interest on the first month of unpaid support?
No. Interest starts when past-due support equals at least one month of support.
Does a Wisconsin payment plan stop interest?
No. Interest is charged even if you pay.
Does Wisconsin charge interest on fees?
Not on unpaid birth costs or fees.
Where can I check my Wisconsin child support balance?
With your county child support agency or the clerk of court.
Official sources
- DCF: collecting past-due child support (interest; payment plans)
- DCF: when child support ends (20-year enforcement)
- Wis. Stat. 767.59(1m): no retroactive revision
- 2021 WI App 40
- 15 U.S.C. 1673: restriction on garnishment
- 42 U.S.C. 652(k): denial of passports
A local family law attorney can review your situation — many offer a free consultation.
This is general information, not legal advice. It is based on the cited Wisconsin statutes, rules and court opinions, and every case turns on its own facts. Confirm how the law applies to your situation with a licensed Wisconsin attorney.