What happens in the 'gap' between CSA case ending and CMS case starting?

OrangePerspex

I am the paying parent and the CSA case ends in a couple of weeks. CMS told me on the phone that they start to set up the new CMS direct pay after the CSA case is closed, and this can take up to six weeks.

Does anyone have experience of what happens during this gap? Do I accrue arrears which I then clear when the new CMS case is up and running? I'm worried that the PWC will need to go 6 weeks without maintenance from me (this will cause upset, understandably).

All I can think of is that I can give my teenage son cash to give to her (she won't communicate with me) but then I could end up paying twice if the new system indeed does accrue arrears in the gap between the two systems. Anyone have any experience?

pmduk

As I understand it, once the CSA case has ended you have no liability, unless and until a new case is commenced with CMS. Should you wish to do the right thing and continue to support your child my advice would be to make any payment by traceable methods eg, a cheque made payable to the custodial parent, never cash.

DODO_2

The CMs will do a calculation from the day after csa case finishes but does take time - they will raise a payment schedule for the next 12 months until your next annual review.

If you are planning on paying mother direct and not via them I would suggest you pay a payment on account to her - marking it clearly on your bank statement - eg "payment on account" as to what it is and then deduct that amount of the first payment per the payment schedule. make sure you have kept documentation to prove this if there is a problem - eg a text to her saying this is what you are doing so that she is not left without funds.

shoe*diva79

I have just been through this..

Basically, my CSA case ended on 13th Feb and my CMS started on 14th Feb. It took them 1 week to do the assessment and because CM is paid in arrears (and in my case monthly), my first payment is due 25th March which will cover 14th Feb - 13th March. He opted the 25th of the month to pay as I assume this is his pay date from work.

Robin-o'-the-Hood

pmduk wrote: »

As I understand it, once the CSA case has ended you have no liability, unless and until a new case is commenced with CMS. Should you wish to do the right thing and continue to support your child my advice would be to make any payment by traceable methods eg, a cheque made payable to the custodial parent, never cash.

Definitely never ever cash!