There are several reasons why parents in Ohio should seek the child support payments that they are likely entitled to. Perhaps the most important reason to seek financial assistance from a noncustodial parent is that it helps to meet a child’s basic needs now and in the future. In most cases, those who don’t have a child support agreement with a former spouse or romantic partner are not eligible to participate in government assistance programs.
Parents who pay child support are likely entitled to greater visitation or other rights to a son or daughter. However, children usually do better when they have both parents in their lives. Furthermore, a son or daughter may be entitled to be included on a noncustodial parent’s health plan or receive other benefits. Parents are encouraged to seek child support payments even if they believe that they don’t need them right now.
As a child gets older, it may become more expensive to provide for his or her medical, educational or other needs. Therefore, it may make sense to ask the other parent to help share the burden of paying those bills. It is important to note that a noncustodial parent is automatically granted visitation or custody rights simply because he or she pays child support. Instead, a visitation or custody ruling is created based on what is in the child’s best interest.
Those who are seeking child support may be able to do so on their own or with the help of an attorney. Legal counsel may explain the process of obtaining financial assistance and how a monthly award might be calculated. Generally speaking, child support payments are based on several factors, such as the income of both parents and if a noncustodial parent is supporting other children.
