About This Guide

This factsheet gives an overview of the child support scheme we administer. It includes general information for parents, or any person caring for a child who is not their own.

How child support works

If a carer receives a sole parent or unsupported child’s benefit from Work and Income, they’ll complete a child support application as part of the benefit application process. Inland Revenue will assess and collect any child support payable.
Parents and carers who don’t receive a benefit can make their own arrangements for child support – Inland Revenue doesn’t need to be involved.
If parents and carers can agree on an amount of child support, but still want us to be involved, they can register a voluntary agreement. This means we’ll collect the
child support and pass it on, at a rate agreed to by both parties. For more information, read our factsheet Child support – voluntary agreements (IR157).

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