Child support is a payment made by the parent who does not have custody to the custodial parent to help cover the expenses of raising a child. Child support is typically ordered by a court, but in some cases, the parents can agree to a child support amount outside of court. There are several different methods for paying child support, discussed in detail below.
Common Ways People Pay and Receive Child Support
Personal check: This is a common method for paying and receiving child support payments, as it allows for easy tracking and documentation of the payments. It is important to note that personal checks can be cancelled or bounce, and it is the responsibility of the custodial parent to ensure that the check clears before spending the funds.
Electronic funds transfer (EFT): This method allows child support payments to be directly deposited into the custodial parent’s bank account. This is a convenient and secure way to receive child support payments, as it eliminates the risk of lost or stolen checks.
Money order: A money order is a type of check that is guaranteed by the issuing institution, such as a post office or bank. This method is often used when the non-custodial parent does not have a checking account or wants to ensure that the payment is received by the custodial parent.
When receiving payments through any of these methods, it is important to keep accurate records and documentation of each payment received. This will be important in case of any disputes over payment amounts or missed payments. It may be beneficial to set up a system to track payments, like a spreadsheet or an app.
Cash Payments are Not a Good Idea
There are several reasons why you should not pay your child support in cash or receive cash child support payments. The main reason is lack of documentation. Cash payments do not leave a paper trail, making it difficult to prove that the payments were made and to keep an accurate record of the amounts paid. This can lead to disputes over payment amounts and missed payments. There is also a risk of fraud. Cash payments are easily lost, stolen, or forged, which can lead to disputes over payment amounts. This can be especially problematic if the custodial parent does not have accurate records of the cash payments received. Lastly, cash payments are difficult to track. Cash payments do not have a clear record of the sender, making it difficult to track down non-custodial parents who may be avoiding making payments.
It’s important to note that, in some cases, cash payments may be the only option for non-custodial parents who do not have a bank account or who have difficulty making electronic payments. In such cases, it is important to keep accurate records of the cash payments received and to have a proof of the payment. It is also important to consult with a lawyer or contact a local child support enforcement agency for guidance and assistance in dealing with these types of payments.
Online Payment Platforms
Online payment platforms like Venmo, CashApp, and PayPal are becoming increasingly popular among younger people for several reasons:
Convenience: These platforms allow for easy and fast electronic payments, which can be made from anywhere with an internet connection. This is especially convenient for younger people who may be constantly on the move or who prefer not to carry cash.
Security: These platforms use advanced security measures to protect users’ financial information and prevent fraud. This can provide peace of mind for younger people who may be more concerned about security issues.
Privacy: These platforms provide more privacy, as it is not necessary to share personal information like bank account numbers or routing numbers with the other party.
It’s important to note that while these platforms can be convenient and secure, it’s still important to keep accurate records of payments received and to ensure that the payments are legal and compliant with the court order. It’s also important to check the fees and charges associated with these platforms and to understand their terms of service.
Consider Hiring a Family Law Attorney
If your ex isn’t paying child support and you want to take action, or if you want to increase or decrease the amount of child support you are paying or receiving, you should consider talking with an attorney who handles these types of cases. If you have been searching the Mississippi area for a qualified, experienced family law attorney, look no further than Vic Carmody Jr., P.A. Our firm can handle your case with a balance of compassion and confidence to guide you through one of the most difficult times a person can go through. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn about your options.
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