A debt that is not paid on the due date adds up and accumulates as "arrears". For example, if you do not pay your rent, the debt still exists and is referred to as "arrears". The same word is used to describe child or spousal maintenance or support which is not paid by the due date.
ARREARS
Meaning of ARREARS in English
Duhaime's Law English dictionary. Английский юридический словарь Duhaime . 2012