Child support is key in divorce agreements. The Hawaii Child Support Enforcement Agency uses a formula and worksheet that rely on the income of the parents and the custody agreement to determine the most suitable payment. You need to observe the given order to avoid debts and legal troubles.
The following are four tips for paying child support:
Have a plan
It’s important to have a plan for paying child support. For instance, you may deduct it from your monthly salary or save it in a different bank account weekly. Regardless of your option, you should pay child support like any other bill. Spending your money to the point you lack enough for child support can be harmful.
Pay on time
You should pay child support days before the given deadline if possible. Paying late can be viewed as neglect, and the other parent may take you to court. Accordingly, you may face penalties, jail terms or losing your driver’s license. Nonetheless, with a plan in the first place, this may not be an issue.
Keep records
When you pay child support and cover expenses, it will help to keep records. This may not seem necessary, but the records will come in handy should your co-parent state you don’t take care of your kid(s) or when you want to negotiate the payment.
Know when to modify the order
You can request a child support modification in some situations. These include a decrease/an increase in income, a change in your child’s needs or a change in custody agreements.
The tips discussed above can help you with child support payments. However, you should obtain adequate information to get a favorable outcome.
