How Do I Keep Track of Child Support Payments?

Disputes over child support are relatively common. Even once a child support order is in place, there are still often issues with payments. Notably, the U.S. Census Bureau reports that nearly 60% of custodial parents do not receive the full child support that they are owed under the law. 

All separated parents should keep track of the child support payments that they made or received. In this article, our Chicago child support lawyer provides an overview of the key things that you should know about keeping track of child support payments in Illinois. 

Why it Matters: Disputes Can Arise, Documentation is Important

A dispute over child support can arise for a wide range of different reasons—including whether or not the proper payments were actually made. Whether you are supposed to be paying or receiving child support, it is important to keep your records organized. You will want to have documentation so that: 

• You know whether or not the proper payments have been made; and
• You can prove that you made full payments or that you did not receive full payments. 

Four Tips to Keeping Track of Child Support Payments in Illinois

Knowing that keeping track of child support payments is important, you may have questions about the best way to do it. While there are a number of different options available, there are some key principles that you need to keep in mind. Here are four tips for keeping track of child support payments in Illinois: 

• Avoid Cash: With cash, it is difficult to prove exactly how much you paid or received. Cash is simply not the best means for child support. 

• Save a Copy of Financial Records: It is best to save a copy of relevant financial records—such as the check or money order used to pay child support—for several years. An electronic payment may also be appropriate. 

• Communicate in Writing With Each Payment or Missed Payment: Did you make a full child support payment. It is a good idea to communicate it in writing. A simple email stating that $X.XX payment was sent on a particular date can be an effective way to document a payment.   

• Keep an Updated Ledger: You should all maintain up-do-records regarding how much has been paid and how much should have been paid in child support. 

Get Help From an Illinois Child Support Attorney

At the Law Office of Demetrios N. Dalmares & Associates, Ltd, our Illinois family law has extensive experience handling complex child support cases. If you have any specific questions or concerns about keeping track of child support payments, we are here as your legal resource. Contact us now to set up your confidential initial consultation. From our Orland Park law office, we handle child support cases throughout the entire Chicago metropolitan area.