According to the federal Office of Child Support Enforcement, in fiscal year 2016, 75 percent of the $33 billion collected was through income withholding. For Missouri employers whose employees have been ordered to pay child support, there may be some changes ahead.
One concern is that when it comes to verifying employment, some employers are sending these requests on to third-party processors. These processors in turn charge a fee to child support agencies. While the OCSE has been working with all parties in search of a solution, it is anticipated that employers will be reminded that these requests are their responsibility and that the child support agencies will not pay.
Another issue is new-hire reporting. Companies are not always consistent with their use of employee identification numbers, and this can create confusion. The method of multistate employee registration will also change. Finally, the form and instructions for paycheck withholding have been revised.
Usually, the noncustodial parent pays child support to the custodial parent. Reaching an agreement about child custody may be one of the most difficult aspects of a divorce, but it does not necessarily mean that parents will have to go to family law court. It might be possible to negotiate a child custody agreement. This may also allow parents the opportunity to come up with arrangements that best suit them and their families. A parent who is having trouble collecting child support can go through a child support enforcement office for assistance. It is important that the parent does not withhold the other parent’s access to the child. Even a parent who fails to pay support has a right to see the child, and support may be collected through wage garnishment or other methods. A parent who can no longer pay child support should go to court and ask for a modification.
