As many of you know, providing financial support for a child can be a difficult and confusing process, especially when navigating the legal system. Fortunately, the state of Louisiana has made the process of applying for child support relatively easy and straightforward. We’re going to walk you through the steps you’ll need to take in order to successfully apply for child support.
Contents
- 1 Understand Louisiana’s Minimum Child Support Requirements
- 2 Start a Child Support Case in Louisiana
Understand Louisiana’s Minimum Child Support Requirements
Louisiana has a set of minimum child support requirements for parents to follow. These requirements include the amount of money each parent must contribute to the financial support of their child or children. It is important to understand these requirements to ensure that both parents are providing financial support for their child or children.
Requirements for Child Support in Louisiana
In Louisiana, the minimum amount of money that must be paid each month for child support is determined by a set of guidelines. These guidelines are based on the incomes of both parents, the number of children involved, and any other financial resources or expenses that need to be taken into account. The guidelines are updated annually to ensure that the amount of money paid for child support is fair and adequate.
The minimum amount of child support that must be paid each month in Louisiana is determined by multiplying the non-custodial parent’s gross monthly income by the following percentages:
- 17% for one child
- 25% for two children
- 29% for three children
- 31% for four children
- For five or more children No less than 35%
In some cases, the court may order a parent to pay more than the minimum child support amount if the parent has the ability to do so. This additional amount may be used to cover other expenses related to the child such as medical bills, daycare costs, and extracurricular activities.
Start a Child Support Case in Louisiana
Starting a child support case in Louisiana can be a complex process, but it can be simplified by following these steps:
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
The first step in starting a child support case in Louisiana is to determine whether you are eligible. You may be eligible to receive child support if:
- You have a legal relationship with the child, such as being the biological parent or having been granted custody by a court.
- You are the custodial parent or the parent with whom the child primarily resides.
- You are not receiving any public assistance for the child.
If you meet these criteria, you may be eligible to receive child support. You should contact the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services to discuss your eligibility.
Step 2: Gather Necessary Documents
Before you can apply for child support, you will need to gather certain documents that are required by DCFS. These include:
- A valid photo ID
- Social Security numbers for both parents and the child
- Proof of the child’s birth date
- Proof of paternity, if applicable
- Proof of address (utility bill, lease, etc.)
- Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, etc.)
Step 3: File an Application for Services
Once you have determined that you are eligible for child support services, you must file an application with the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services. The application can be found on their website or you can pick up a paper copy at any local DCFS office. The application must be filled out completely and signed by both parties. You can also call the 24/7 Child Support helpline at (888) LA CHILD (522-4453) for assistance.
Download a Application Form to Complete
Start a Application Online
Step 4: Submit the Application
Once the application has been completed, it must be submitted to the DCFS office. You can submit the application by mail, fax, or in person. If you are submitting the application by mail, make sure to include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for the return of the application. Once the application has been received, DCFS will review the information and contact you for further instructions.
Step 5: Attend a Child Support Hearing
Once the application has been reviewed, you may be required to attend a child support hearing. At the hearing, a judge will review the information and decide whether to order child support. The judge may also decide to modify an existing child support order if there has been a change in circumstances.
Step 6: Follow the Court’s Order
If the court orders child support, you must follow the court’s order. The court may order the non-custodial parent to pay a certain amount of money each month to the custodial parent. The court may also order the non-custodial parent to provide health insurance or other benefits for the child. If the non-custodial parent fails to pay the court-ordered amount, the custodial parent can take legal action to enforce the order.
Step 7: Create a Payment Plan
Once your application is approved, DCFS will work with both parents to create a payment plan that is fair and reasonable for both parties. This payment plan will include the amount to be paid and the frequency of payments. DCFS will also help enforce the payment plan if necessary.
Step 8: Receive Payments
Once the payment plan is finalized, the non-custodial parent will be responsible for making payments as agreed upon. The payments can be made via check, cash, money order, or direct deposit. DCFS will also provide assistance in monitoring and collecting payments if necessary.
It is important to understand Louisiana’s minimum child support requirements and to ensure that both parents are meeting their financial obligations. If you have any questions about how to apply for child support in Louisiana, contact the DCFS or a family law attorney.
Overall, applying for child support in Louisiana is a straightforward process that can make a huge difference in the lives of children and their families. Following this guide has hopefully made the process easier to understand and put into action. It is important to remember to follow the instructions carefully and to provide all of the necessary documents and information. Furthermore, a child support attorney may be able to provide additional support and guidance throughout the process. With the right guidance and resources, applying for child support in Louisiana is a relatively easy task.