If you are a parent who is currently paying or receiving child support in Arizona, you may have some questions about the process. Unfortunately, there are a lot of myths about child support that persist today. In this article, we will dispel some of the most common myths about child support in Arizona. Keep reading to learn more.

The Truth Behind Child Support In Arizona Myths

    If you’re a parent in Arizona, you’re probably well aware of the child support system. You may have even experienced it firsthand. And while you may think you know everything there is to know about child support, there are still some myths floating around. Here are five of the most common myths about child support in Arizona:

1. If the paying parent does not see the child, child support is not required to be paid.

    This is a common myth, but child support is not based on whether or not the paying parent sees the child. Child support is based on the needs of the child and the income of both parents. If the paying parent does not see the child, it may be possible to modify the child support order so that less money is paid. However, this would have to be done through the court system. Child support is meant to help cover the costs of raising a child, such as food, clothing, shelter, and medical care. It is not meant to punish either parent. If you have any questions about your specific situation, you should speak with an attorney who specializes in family law. They will be able to give you the best advice for your unique circumstances.

2. The obligation for child support ends when the child turns 18.

    This is a common myth, but in reality, child support may still be required even after the child turns 18. If the child is still attending high school or college, then child support will likely be necessary to help cover the costs of their education. Additionally, if the child has any special needs that require financial assistance, then parents may be required to provide support for an extended period. Child support obligations typically end when the child turns 18 or graduates from college, whichever comes later. However, there are some instances where parents may be required to provide support for a longer time.

3. Only the mother of the child, or the parent who has custody, can apply for assistance from the Division of Child Support Services.

    Any parent who needs help collecting child support can apply for assistance, regardless of custody arrangement. Contacting the other parent and asking them to pay child support can be difficult and frustrating, especially if they live in another state. The Division of Child Support Services can help with this by working with the other parent’s employer or taking other legal action. If you are owed child support but are having trouble collecting it, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. You deserve to have the financial support you need to care for your children.

4. No one pays child support because we have equal parenting time.

    This is a common misconception, but it’s simply not true. Both parents are responsible for providing financial support for their children, regardless of how much time they each spend with them. So even if you have equal custody, one parent may still be required to pay child support to the other. It all depends on each parent’s income and ability to pay. Child support is based on the needs of the child and not the parenting schedule, so don’t assume that just because you have equal parenting time you won’t have to pay or receive child support.

5. The Division of Child Support Services is aware of when a parent who is paying child support loses his or her job.

    The Division of Child Support Services (DCSS) is the state agency that collects and disburses child support payments in Arizona. DCSS is required by law to notify the non-custodial parent’s employer of a change in income. However, because DCSS relies on the non-custodial parent to provide accurate information about his or her employment, DCSS can be unaware of a job loss. If you are a non-custodial parent who has lost your job, you should contact DCSS as soon as possible to update your information and request a modification of your child support order.

    As you can see, there are a lot of myths out there about child support in Arizona. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to give us a call. Our team is here to help you understand your rights and obligations under the law. We want to make sure that you get the best possible outcome in your case, and we know that starts with having accurate information. Call us today.

Are You Looking for a Family Law Attorney You Can Trust?

The attorneys at GillespieShields are well-versed in a variety of different legal fields, ranging from family law to civil suits, employment disputes and probate cases. Although we specialize in several areas of practice, our greatest passion is family law. We believe in giving families peace of mind no matter their situation, and we fight hard to maintain that peace. Whether you’re filing for dissolution or divorce, determining custody of your children, or thinking about adopting children, our experienced attorneys are here to help you every step of the way.  During our private, one-on-one consultation, we’ll take the necessary time to answer all of our questions surrounding Arizona’s family laws, your family’s unique situation, and the possible court outcomes. Contact us today for your consultation!

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