What is the role of the Support Collection Unit (SCU) in New York?

Child support is essential for the well-being of children whose parents are separated or divorced. In New York, the Support Collection Unit (SCU) plays a key role in ensuring custodial parents receive financial support for their children. This state-run agency ensures that non-custodial parents meet their financial obligations, reducing the burden on custodial parents. A New York City child support attorney from the Law Office of Vivien I. Stark, P.C., will explain the functions and responsibilities of this vital agency.

Overview of the SCU

The SCU is part of the New York State Department of Family Assistance, which operates under the administration of the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA). The SCU works with courts across the state to facilitate establishing, enforcing, and collecting child support payments.

This office serves as a crucial intermediary between custodial parents and non-custodial parents. Its primary goal is to ensure that children receive financial support in line with the state’s child support guidelines.

Key Functions of the SCU

The SCU carries out various functions to ensure that parents meet their child support obligations. Some of the core responsibilities of the SCU include:

• Collecting child support payments: Once a child support order is established, SCU ensures the non-custodial parent makes regular payments through methods like wage garnishment, income tax refund interception, and direct collection. These measures help enforce consistent child support payments.

• Enforcing child support orders: Enforcement is a key responsibility of SCU, which has the legal authority to take action if a non-custodial parent fails to make timely payments. These actions include suspending licenses, garnishing wages, and placing liens on property.

• Modification of child support orders: If circumstances change, such as a shift in income or custody arrangements, the SCU can assist in collecting child support or it can create a new order based upon a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). Parents may request COLA modifications if child support payments are made through the SCU and more than three years have elapsed since the last order.

• Providing assistance to parents: The SCU offers support services to help parents navigate the child support system, including information on establishing and enforcing orders. It also assists with payment inquiries and locates difficult-to-find non-custodial parents.

The Importance of SCU’s Work

The SCU is vital to the financial stability of families in New York. Without its services, many custodial parents would struggle to secure the support needed, which would affect their children’s well-being.

Understanding the SCU’s role can help parents utilize available services when navigating the child support process. Our New York City child support lawyers can guide you through the process and ensure your child’s needs are met.

Contact the Law Office of Vivien I. Stark, P.C. Today

New York’s SCU ensures children receive the financial support they need by establishing orders, collecting payments, and enforcing obligations. Sometimes, mistakes are made by the SCU requiring the services of an attorney. If you need assistance with child support issues, contact us today to learn how we can help.