How to Transfer a Child Support Case to a Different State
Transferring a child support case to another state can be as simple as filling out a new case packet with your local child support office. However, if you do not have custody of the child whose support case you want to transfer, or the other parent will not agree to transfer the case to another state, you will need to consult with an attorney. The Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA) governs child support cases crossing state lines; learning the rules for transferring support cases will increase your chances of success.
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Things You'll Need
- Internet access
- Printer
- Phone
- Child support case information and statements
Instructions
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Contact your current child support caseworker and ask if your case can be transferred to the state you are living in. If you have custody of the child whose support case you want transferred, you may only have to fill out a new case packet with the nearest support enforcement office in your new state.
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Learn about the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA). This act governs specific requirements for child support cases, such as whether or not transfers are allowed, how to transfer, how to modify support amounts and how to end support payments. According to UIFSA, there are only two ways to get a case transferred to another state: all parties agree to transfer the case, or the child and custodial parent move to another state. Click on the link below for information on UIFSA.
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Contact your local court to obtain forms necessary for the child support case transfer. If you have questions or concerns about transferring your support case, speak to the court clerk or ask for a referral to the nearest Legal Aid office. Click on the link below to find your local court.
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Fill out all required forms; read instructions carefully. Attach copies of current support case statements, pay stubs, tax records and any other required information as noted in the instructions. Ask the court clerk how many copies you will need; submit documents to your local court and serve a copy on the other parent.
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Attend your hearing (if required). Several states will allow you to appear by telephone, if you request it ahead of time. Contact the court clerk to request telephonic appearance.
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If you aren't sure whether or not your case can be transferred, or if the other parent is trying to transfer the case and you object, consult with an attorney. Many attorneys will give a free initial consultation; during the consultation ask the attorney what your options are and how they plan to handle it. Click on the link below to locate an attorney in your area.
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Tips & Warnings
Read all forms carefully and re-check entered information for accuracy before submitting them.
Be sure to get a current child support case statement from your caseworker.
Do not handle your own support case transfer if you are unsure about requirements, forms, laws or how it will impact your situation. Consult with an attorney or meet with a Legal Aid representative before proceeding.
