Division of Child Support can help parents struggling to pay

I am writing in response to the Jan. 5 letter by David Kress.

While the Department of Social and Health Services Division of Child Support cannot comment on specific child support cases, we encourage anyone challenged by their child support obligation to contact us at 800-442-5437 or dcs-cru@dshs.wa.gov.

In Washington state, child support is based on the income of both parents and according to the child support schedule established by the Legislature. The Governor appoints a committee to review the schedule every four years. The committee includes members of the public, advocates for parents and subject matter experts. Later this year, DCS will publicize the opportunity to volunteer for the 2019 Child Support Schedule Workgroup. Watch for information about that on our website at www.childsupportonline.wa.gov.

Within this framework, DCS can still be helpful to parents. We can help parents overcome barriers to payment through our Alternative Solutions program. We can address the needs of specific populations with outreach by staff members with relevant experience, including veterans.

Any significant change in circumstances for a parent may make the order eligible for adjustment or modification. It’s in everyone’s best interest for child support orders to be aligned with family circumstances. Children who grow up with the emotional and financial support of both parents tend to have significantly better health, education and employment outcomes as adults.

We think that’s the best possible foundation for fulfilling every child’s potential.

This story was originally published January 24, 2018 at 3:43 PM with the headline "Division of Child Support can help parents struggling to pay."