(833) 553-4251
(833) 553-4251
Most non-custodial parents are required by court order to provide financial support to the custodial parent. These payments are designed to ensure that the burden of providing for a child is spread fairly between both parties and that the payments do not fall to the state.
This money is not sent directly to the other party. Instead, the process of child support payments in Austin goes through the state. However, there are several different options for paying, and a skilled child support attorney could provide insight into the best ways to proceed.
For a custodial parent to obtain financial help from the other party, they will first need to file for child support in their county. In addition to formally initiating the child support payment process in Austin, they must notify the other parent of the proceedings. How long this takes depends on where that person is located and how hard they are to find. Once notified, the non-custodial parent has a limited amount of time to respond.
Depending on the circumstances, the case can take weeks or months, depending on factors like the complexity of the situation and whether or not there is a dispute over paternity.
Once the court makes its decision, it will formally enter an order that both parties must adhere to. There are enforcement options available in cases of nonpayment. For example, the court could withhold wages from a parent and use that money to pay the child support obligation.
Unlike in some states, Texas requires paying parents to send money directly to the Office of the Attorney General. This branch of the government is responsible for collecting and distributing child support payments and enforcing existing orders when one party fails to comply.
It is important to understand this process, given that going through the Office of the Attorney General is mandatory. Money sent directly to the other parent is considered a gift and will not accounted for when calculating how much is owed each month.
The state accepts a variety of payment options, including:
A seasoned legal professional in Austin could provide additional information and guidance throughout the child support payment process.
There are two options for receiving money from the state as part of the Austin child support payment process. Upon request, the State of Texas will set up a direct deposit order, which automatically disburses money into a designated account each month. This is a common option, but it is only convenient for parents with bank accounts.
The other option is the Texas Payment Card. This works as a debit card that is reloaded with money by the state each month. It can be used anywhere VISA cards are accepted, and the state disburses the money within a day or two of receiving it. Transactions can be easily monitored online, and the card is secure.
If you have questions about the process of child support payments in Austin, now is the time to seek out legal counsel. Being informed before you attempt to make any payments or expect to receive a check in the mail is vital. Call our firm today to discuss how the payment process.
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