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Child support in Whakatane, New Zealand, is a legally mandated financial commitment, which parents who do not live with their children usually need to pay. The obligation to pay child support is firmly established under the Child Support Act 1991 with the primary objective to ensure that both parents contribute financially to child-rearing costs. The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) in New Zealand is the entity that administers child support.
Although the child support system is designed for parents to navigate on their own, there are a number of situations where legal advice may be beneficial. These may include instances when adjustments need to be made to the standard formula used to calculate child support due to special circumstances, disputes over paternity, disputes over the level of earnings, or when an overseas residing parent is required to pay child support in New Zealand.
The cornerstone of local child support law is the Child Support Act 1991. Under this act, a standard formula is used by the IRD to calculate child support, based on the income of both parents, the amount of time the child spends with each parent, and the age and number of children involved. Additionally, both parents are obligated to update the IRD about any changes in circumstances that might affect child support payments. Failure to comply could lead to penalties.
Child support is generally paid until the child turns 18 or, in some cases, until they finish their secondary education, whichever comes later.
Yes, if you believe that the standard formula does not reflect your circumstances, or if there has been a significant change in your finances, you can apply to have the assessed amount reviewed by the IRD.
New Zealand has reciprocal agreements with several countries to enforce child support obligations. If the other parent resides in one of these countries, they can be compelled to pay child support.
Failure to pay child support can lead to penalties and enforced collection methods, including garnishing of wages, seizure of property, or withholding of tax refunds.
No, child support payments do not cover specific expenses. They are intended to contribute towards the overall cost of raising the child.
The IRD website provides a plethora of information about child support laws and processes. For comprehensive understanding of your rights and obligations, you may also want to consult a family law specialist.
If you need legal assistance in a child support matter, your first step should be to consult with a legal professional specialized in family law. They can guide you through the process, represent you in any disputes, and advise you on the best course of action based on your situation. Additionally, maintaining documentation of all correspondence and financial exchanges relating to child support can be crucial.
