If the paying parent is unable to make payments because of being unemployed or under-employed, the court may order the parent to seek a full-time job. Usually the order will require the parent to register and cooperate with a local employment agency, apply for at least five jobs per week, and report back to court with proof of the applications. The order can be continued until the parent gets a full-time job.

If the parent does not comply with any portion of the court's order, a contempt of court order may be issued.