If you’re asking this question, you’re not alone—and you’re not without options. When a former spouse stops paying court-ordered alimony, it can create immediate financial stress and uncertainty. The good news is that Pennsylvania law provides clear tools to enforce support obligations and hold non-paying spouses accountable.

Here’s what you need to know—and what you can do next.

First, Confirm the Type of Support You’re Owed

In Pennsylvania, “alimony” can refer to different types of financial support:

• Spousal Support – Paid while a divorce is pending
• Alimony Pendente Lite (APL) – Temporary support during divorce litigation
• Alimony – Ongoing support awarded after the divorce is finalized

Why does this matter? Because enforcement options may vary slightly depending on the type of order in place. Regardless, if there is a valid court order, your ex is legally obligated to pay.

Step 1: Review Your Court Order

Before taking action, locate your divorce decree or support order. Confirm:

• The exact amount owed
• Payment frequency
• Due dates
• Whether payments are processed through the Domestic Relations Section (DRS)

If payments are supposed to go through DRS, they often already track missed payments—making enforcement easier.

Step 2: Document Missed Payments

Keep a clear record of:

• Dates payments were missed
• Partial payments (if any)
• Communication with your ex regarding nonpayment

This documentation will strengthen your case if enforcement becomes necessary.

Step 3: File for Enforcement

If your ex is not paying, you can file a Petition for Contempt with the court. This is one of the most common and effective enforcement tools. Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure §§ 1910.25-1910.27, 1910.21

When a court finds someone in contempt for failing to pay alimony, consequences may include:

• Wage garnishment
• Seizure of tax refunds
• Suspension of driver’s or professional licenses
• Payment of your attorney’s fees
• In extreme cases, jail time

Courts take support obligations seriously—especially when nonpayment is willful.

Step 4: Request Wage Garnishment or Income Withholding

If your ex is employed, the court can order automatic income withholding, meaning payments are taken directly from their paycheck before they even receive it.

This is often the most reliable way to ensure consistent payments moving forward.

Step 5: Consider Modifying the Order (If Circumstances Changed)

Sometimes, nonpayment isn’t about refusal—it’s about inability. If your ex has experienced a legitimate financial hardship (job loss, medical issues, etc.), they may seek to modify the order.

However, it’s important to understand:

• They cannot simply stop paying without court approval
• Until a modification is granted, missed payments still accrue as arrears

If you suspect a modification request is coming, legal guidance is essential to protect your interests.

Step 6: Don’t Wait Too Long

Delays can make enforcement more difficult, especially if arrears grow large or your ex becomes harder to locate or collect from. Acting early improves your chances of recovery.

How a Pennsylvania Family Law Attorney Can Help

Enforcing alimony isn’t just about filing paperwork—it’s about using the right strategy to secure the support you’re owed as quickly as possible. An experienced family law attorney can:

• File and argue your contempt petition
• Navigate the Domestic Relations system
• Locate income sources or hidden assets
• Advocate for penalties and enforcement remedies

Take Back Control

If your ex-husband isn’t paying alimony, you don’t have to accept it. Pennsylvania courts provide strong enforcement mechanisms—and with the right legal approach, you can pursue the support you’re entitled to.

If you’re dealing with unpaid alimony, now is the time to act.

Need help enforcing an alimony order in Pennsylvania?
Contact our office today to schedule a confidential consultation and discuss your options.

This post was written by Niki Erdner, Paralegal and Director of Practice Support, and is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.