The government has no access to your 401(k) money and will not take it.
Remember to save some of it for taxes - in addition to the regular income tax, you'll have a 10% penalty if you aren't over 59 1/2 and the amount they'll withhold is seldom enough.

No--- Retirement plans can be paid ONLY to the participant unless there is a QDRO in effect.. (qualified domestic relations order).. usually for an ex spouse or sometimes for child support
SO... NO they will deduct 20% for federal taxes, and possibly state (depends where you are)

No child support arrearage cannot be automatically taken out when i cash in my 401k, it can only be paid to you.

Even if they don't take it, the right thing to do would to pay all or a good portion towards what you owe. It is a tough thing to do but taking care of your child(ren) is the right thing to do. I pay child support myself and it is hard to stay current especially with the way the economy is but when you have extra, now is the time to get caught up before the next hiccup in life. If you get too far behind, you can end up in jail and that is no place for someone that has kids that look up to them.

Just wondering if anyone has done it?