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| 1. Who is eligible for DCSS services? |
| 2. Does DCSS charge fees for services? |
| 3. How is child support calculated? |
| 4. How long must child support be paid? |
| 5. Will the Child Support payment amount be lowered when the oldest child reaches the age of majority? |
| 6. How can I modify my child support order? |
| 7. Does the DCSS attorney represent me? |
| 8. How do I change my mailing address? |
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| 1. Who is eligible for DCSS services? | Back to top |
| Recipients of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits automatically receive child support services. All other persons are eligible by applying at a DHHS District Office. |
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| 2. Does DCSS charge fees for services? | Back to top |
| An Annual Service Fee of $25.00 will be deducted from all cases in which a minimum of $500.00 has been collected and disbursed to the Payee. The fee will not be charged in cases where the Payee has received Public Assistance (TANF/AFDC) for the children. If a Payee has multiple cases, the fee will be charged in each case where a minimum of $500.00 has been collected and disbursed. The Payor will be credited for the full amount of the fee. |
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| 3. How is child support calculated? | Back to top |
| In accordance with the Child Support Guidelines outlined by the NH Statutes, the amount of child support is calculated based on a non-custodial parent's income. For one child, the amount of child support is 25% of net income, 33% for 2 children, 40% for 3 children, and 45% for 4 children or more. |
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| 4. How long must child support be paid? | Back to top |
Child support is paid until a child turns 18 years old or graduates from high school, whichever occurs last, unless the order specifies differently, i.e., continue through college graduation. Child support also terminates when a child gets married or joins the military. |
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| 5. Will the Child Support payment amount be lowered when the oldest child reaches the age of majority? | Back to top |
| Unless the order specifies an amount per child, the amount of child support will remain the same. The non-custodial parent may petition the court to modify the order according to the child support guidelines based on the number of minor children. |
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| 6. How can I modify my child support order? | Back to top |
| Either party may request a modification to of a child support order every three years or if there has been a substantial change in circumstances. A Child Support Order Modification Kit is available from DCCS or from the clerks of superior and family courts. These kits have detailed instructions on how to file for a modification in court. |
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| 7. Does the DCSS attorney represent me? | Back to top |
| No. DCSS attorneys represent DHHS (State of New Hampshire). Although you may be asked for information and input, it is up to DCSS attorneys to choose the best course of action and to make final decisions. If there is a conflict between your interests and DCSS interests, DCSS will represent DCSS interests. You always have the right to retain your own attorney or to represent yourself. |
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| 8. How do I change my mailing address? | Back to top |
Address changes must be submitted in writing using the Notice of Change of Address form. For proper identification, please include:
- Your name,
- Case ID Number,
- Social Security Number (SSN),
- Previous address,
- New address,
- Any new telephone numbers and
- Your signature
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