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The Child Support Certification form plays a pivotal role in managing obligations related to child support payments in New York. Designed to gather essential personal and employer information, the form requires the individual to disclose their current child support status — whether they are under an obligation to pay or not. Each party must indicate their circumstances by selecting one of two statements, followed by details regarding any arrears if applicable. This structured approach not only aids in tracking payment compliance but also ensures that individuals who may be behind on payments can outline specific situations, such as participation in income execution plans or ongoing court proceedings. Additionally, the declaration emphasizes the importance of providing accurate information under penalty of perjury, highlighting the serious consequences of submitting false information. There are further stipulations regarding the potential suspension of licenses for those significantly in arrears. For those facing difficulties linked to outstanding child support, assistance is available through the Office of Child Support Enforcement’s Customer Service Walk-In Center in New York City, offering a pathway to resolve issues effectively. Understanding this form’s requirements can be crucial for anyone navigating the complexities of child support obligations.

Child Support Certification Example

M-522

Human Resources Administration

Rev 05/10

Office of Child Support Enforcement

Child Support Certification

Certification pursuant to General Obligations Law Section 3-503(2)

Personal information

Last name

 

First name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Social Security Number or ITIN

 

 

 

Date of Birth

/

/

Street address

 

 

 

 

 

Apt. number

 

 

 

 

City

 

State

 

 

Zip code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Employer information

Business name

Street address

City

 

State

 

Zip code

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Choose #1 or# 2, and put an “X” in the box in front of the applicable statement.)

1.

2.

I am not under a court or administrative order to pay child support. OR I am under an obligation to pay child support.

My child support account number[s] (if applicable):

(If you chose #2, put an “X” in front of the applicable statement.)

a. I do not owe arrears equal to 4 months or more of child support payments.

b. I have arrears equal to 4 months or more of child support payments, and one of the following statements applies to me (check the appropriate boxes):

I am making payments by income execution or by court agreed payment/repayment plan or by a plan agreed to by the parties.

My child support obligation is the subject of a pending court proceeding.

I am currently in receipt of Public Assistance or Supplemental Security Income. My case number is: _____________________________________.

c. I have arrears equal to 4 months or more of child support payments and none of the above statements in “B” apply to me.

I hereby do solemnly swear under oath and subject to penalty of perjury that the information provided by me in this certificate is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge.

Signature

 

Date

The intentional submission of false written statements for the purpose of frustrating or defeating payment of support is punishable pursuant to Section 175.35 of the penal law. Persons who are four months or more in arrears in child support or who have failed to comply with a summons, subpoena or warrant relating to a paternity or child support proceeding may be subject to suspension of their business, professional, drivers, and/or recreational license and permits including, but not limited to, license issued pursuant to section 11-0713 of the environmental conservation law.

If you are experiencing difficulties obtaining a NYC license, permit, certificate or registration because of an outstanding

child support problem, please come to OCSE’s Customer Service Walk-In Center

and you may receive assistance in resolving your problem:

The New York City Office of Child Support Enforcement Customer Service Walk-In Center 151 West Broadway, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10013 (between Worth St. and Thomas St.)

Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Description
Governing Law The Child Support Certification form is governed by the General Obligations Law Section 3-503(2).
Personal Information Requirement Individuals must provide their last name, first name, Social Security Number or ITIN, date of birth, and address details.
Options for Child Support Obligation The form requires individuals to indicate if they are under a court order to pay child support, with two choices provided.
Arrears Disclosure Individuals must disclose if they owe arrears equal to four months or more of child support payments.
Penalty for False Statements Submitting false information on the form is a punishable offense under Section 175.35 of the penal law.

Guidelines on Utilizing Child Support Certification

Filling out the Child Support Certification form is an important step in your child support process. This form needs accurate personal and employment information, along with acknowledgment of your obligations regarding child support. After completing the form, be prepared to submit it as instructed to the appropriate office.

  1. Begin by entering your personal information:
    • Last name
    • First name
    • Social Security Number or ITIN
    • Date of Birth
    • Street address
    • Apt. number (if applicable)
    • City
    • State
    • Zip code
  2. Provide your employer information:
    • Business name
    • Street address
    • City
    • State
    • Zip code
  3. Choose either statement 1 or 2 by placing an “X” in the appropriate box:
    • 1. I am not under a court or administrative order to pay child support.
    • 2. I am under an obligation to pay child support.
  4. If you selected option 2, enter your child support account number(s) if applicable.
  5. If you chose option 2, indicate your status regarding arrears by placing an “X” in the appropriate box:
    • a. I do not owe arrears equal to 4 months or more of child support payments.
    • b. I have arrears equal to 4 months or more of child support payments, and check all that apply:
      • I am making payments by income execution or by court agreed payment/repayment plan or by a plan agreed to by the parties.
      • My child support obligation is the subject of a pending court proceeding.
      • I am currently in receipt of Public Assistance or Supplemental Security Income. My case number is: _____________________________________.
    • c. I have arrears equal to 4 months or more of child support payments and none of the above statements in “B” apply to me.
  6. Finally, sign and date the form in the appropriate fields.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the purpose of the Child Support Certification form?

The Child Support Certification form is designed to gather personal and employer information necessary to determine an individual's child support obligations. It helps assess whether someone is subject to a court or administrative order for child support and if they owe any arrears. This form ensures that accurate information is provided to facilitate compliance with child support laws and responsibilities.

Who must complete this certification form?

What happens if I have arrears equal to four months or more?

If you have arrears equal to four months or more, you must specify your situation on the form. You have the option to indicate if you are making payments through income execution or a court-approved plan. If these options do not apply, it is crucial to note that your child support obligations may result in legal consequences, including the suspension of various licenses, such as business or professional licenses, if you fail to comply.

What are the consequences of providing false information on the form?

Providing false information on the Child Support Certification form can have serious repercussions. Under the law, intentionally submitting incorrect statements to avoid child support obligations is considered a crime. This can lead to criminal charges and penalties, including fines or imprisonment. It’s vital to provide accurate and honest information to avoid legal ramifications.

What should I do if I need help with my child support situation?

If you are experiencing difficulties related to your child support obligations or find yourself unable to obtain a license or permit due to an outstanding child support issue, assistance is available. You can visit the New York City Office of Child Support Enforcement Customer Service Walk-In Center for help. The center operates on weekdays and Saturdays, offering support to resolve your child support challenges efficiently.

Common mistakes

Filling out the Child Support Certification form requires careful attention to detail. One common mistake individuals make is not providing complete personal information. Failing to fill in fields like the last name, first name, or Social Security Number can lead to delays or rejection of the certification. Each detail is crucial for identification purposes, and any omission can complicate the process.

Another frequent error involves misunderstanding the choices presented in the form. The section where individuals must select between two statements—regarding whether they are under a court obligation to pay child support—can be confusing. Some people mistakenly select statement #1, thinking that this absolves them of any past due obligations, when in fact, they may already have an existing child support order.

Individuals might also overlook the requirement to indicate whether they owe arrears. This part of the form is vital for the Office of Child Support Enforcement to assess the individual’s status accurately. Marking the wrong statement or failing to provide the required information about arrears can lead to serious complications, including legal repercussions.

In addition, many do not take the time to review the certification statement thoroughly before signing. The act of swearing under oath that the information is true is significant. Providing false information—whether intentionally or mistakenly—can result in severe penalties. A lack of understanding regarding the consequences of this attestation can lead to legal troubles later.

Finally, neglecting to include the signature and date can result in the form being rendered invalid. Even if all other sections are filled out correctly, without a signature, the certification cannot be processed. Ensuring all steps are meticulously completed is essential to avoid unnecessary setbacks.

Documents used along the form

The Child Support Certification form plays a critical role in enforcing child support obligations. Along with this form, several other documents are often required throughout the child support process. These documents serve as verification and facilitate smooth interactions between custodial and non-custodial parents, as well as the authorities involved. Below is a list of commonly used forms and documents in conjunction with the Child Support Certification form.

  • Child Support Order: This is a court-issued document that outlines the payment amounts, frequency, and duration of support payments. It legally obliges the non-custodial parent to provide financial support for their child.
  • Child Support Enforcement Application: Individuals seeking enforcement of a child support order may be required to submit this application. It typically provides necessary information about the custodial and non-custodial parents.
  • Income Verification Documents: These documents may include pay stubs, tax returns, or other records proving an individual’s income. They help determine the appropriate amount of child support based on financial circumstances.
  • Financial Disclosure Form: This form collects comprehensive financial information from both parents, which can include assets, liabilities, and overall financial health. It aims to ensure transparency in financial situations.
  • Modification Request: If either parent believes a change in circumstances warrants a modification of the current child support amount, this form can be submitted for review by the court.
  • Support Payment Record: This document tracks the payments made toward child support. Keeping an accurate record helps prevent disputes about missed or late payments.
  • Affidavit of Support: Used by a parent to assert their financial capability to support a child, this legal document may be necessary in some contexts, especially for non-custodial parents attempting to establish their financial status.
  • Paternity Acknowledgment Form: This form establishes the legal father of a child when the parents are not married. It is essential in child support cases, as it confirms the non-custodial parent’s obligation to pay support.

Each of these documents plays a vital role in ensuring a stable and appropriate child support arrangement. Together, they help clarify the responsibilities and rights of all parties involved, fostering an environment that prioritizes the welfare of the child.

Similar forms

  • Child Support Application Form: This document collects essential information about parents and children, including financial details, to establish child support obligations, much like the Child Support Certification.
  • Affidavit of Support: A sworn statement confirming an individual's ability to support a person, such as a dependent. Both forms require accurate personal information and affirm the truthfulness of the provided details.
  • Financial Disclosure Form: This form gathers an individual's financial information for legal purposes. It shares similarities with the certification form in that both ask for details about income and obligations.
  • Income Verification Document: Such documents verify an individual's income, which is crucial for determining appropriate child support amounts, similar to what the Child Support Certification aims to clarify.
  • Paternity Acknowledgment Form: This document confirms the paternity of a child and may influence child support arrangements. Both forms serve to establish legal responsibilities.
  • Child Support Modification Request: Individuals may use this form to request changes to an existing support order. Both the modification request and certification involve court-related processes and personal financial assessments.
  • Judgment of Child Support: This is a court's final order regarding child support payments that outlines the responsibilities of the obligor. Similar to the certification form, it records obligations and assists in legal compliance.
  • Parenting Plan: A detailed document outlining custody and visitation arrangements. Both documents are crucial in family law cases, addressing the responsibilities and rights of parents.
  • Child Support Agreement: This legally binding contract between parents details child support payments and terms. It shares similarities with the certification in that both recognize and enforce financial obligations.
  • Wage Garnishment Order: This court order requires an employer to withhold a portion of wages to pay child support. Both documents relate to child support enforcement and require accurate personal employment information.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Child Support Certification form, accuracy and honesty are essential. Here's a list of things to do and avoid:

  • Do provide your full legal name, including the last name and first name.
  • Do enter your Social Security Number or ITIN correctly.
  • Do indicate your accommodation details such as street address, city, and state.
  • Do check the appropriate box indicating whether or not you are under a child support order.
  • Don't omit your child support account number if you are under an obligation to pay.
  • Don't submit false information. Misrepresenting facts can lead to serious consequences.
  • Don't ignore the requirement to disclose whether you owe arrears equal to four months or more.
  • Don't forget to sign and date the form. An unsigned form can delay processing.

Following these guidelines can help ensure that your form is completed correctly and can assist in avoiding potential issues down the line.

Misconceptions

Understanding the Child Support Certification form is crucial for both parents and custodians involved in child support matters. However, several misconceptions often arise regarding this form. Here are seven common misconceptions and their clarifications:

  • Misconception 1: The form only applies to individuals who are already in arrears.
  • This is not true. This form is required for anyone who is under a court or administrative order to pay child support, regardless of their current payment status.

  • Misconception 2: Completing the form means I am admitting I owe child support.
  • While the form does ask for information about any child support obligations, filling it out does not automatically mean you acknowledge that you owe support. It simply serves to provide the necessary information for processing.

  • Misconception 3: You cannot change your information once it is submitted.
  • Inaccuracies can be corrected. If you realize there are mistakes in your submitted form, contact the Office of Child Support Enforcement immediately to update your information.

  • Misconception 4: Only custodial parents need to fill out this form.
  • Both custodial and non-custodial parents may be required to fill out this form, depending on individual circumstances and obligations.

  • Misconception 5: The form is optional and not mandatory.
  • This is incorrect. The Child Support Certification form is a mandatory document necessary for regulatory compliance in child support situations.

  • Misconception 6: Submitting this form protects me from license suspension.
  • While submitting the form is essential, it does not guarantee protection from license suspension. If you are four months or more in arrears, taking action to resolve the arrears is crucial to prevent further penalties.

  • Misconception 7: The information I provide in this form will remain confidential.
  • While personal data is collected, certain details may be disclosed in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, especially if they involve enforcement actions.

Clearing up these misconceptions can lead to a better understanding of the obligations and processes related to child support. Always consult with a qualified professional if you have specific questions or concerns about your situation.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the Child Support Certification form, several important points should be kept in mind. Here is a summary of the key takeaways:

  • Accurate Information is Crucial: Ensure that all personal and employer information is complete and correct.
  • Understand Your Obligations: You must indicate whether you are under a court order to pay child support.
  • Identify Arrears Status: If you owe any arrears, be prepared to provide details, especially if they equal four months or more.
  • Provide Case Details: If applicable, include your child support account number and case number on the form.
  • Legal Consequences: Submitting false information can lead to penalties under the law and may complicate your support obligations.
  • Potential License Suspensions: Be aware that owing child support may result in the suspension of various licenses and permits.
  • Seek Assistance if Needed: If you encounter difficulties related to child support and obtaining a license, the Office of Child Support Enforcement can provide help.
  • Timely Submission: Ensure that you submit the form within the required time frames to avoid disruptions in services or support issues.

By keeping these points in mind, you can navigate the Child Support Certification process more effectively.