Child Support Awareness Month is observed annually in the month of August. Child Support is a family law that requires a parent to provide periodic financial aid to their child till the time they become legal adults. This month is important to highlight the significance of child support in the development of a child.
History of Child Support Awareness Month
A periodic payment made by a parent, child support is mandated after a marital separation, annulment, or other unforeseen factors. The specifics of the child support plan would vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction as each state has its own laws. However, the safety and well-being of the child remain of paramount importance, and under no circumstances should a child suffer and be prohibited from reaching their maximum potential. Therefore, child support is essential in the overall well-being of a child and there are child support laws and services that ensure the proper functioning of this system and that each child is well looked after.
In lieu of the same, it was the former president of the United States of America, Bill Clinton, who in 1995 recognized August as the National Child Support Awareness Month in the United States of America, on the 20th anniversary of the Child Support Enforcement Program. From thereon, every summer, the child support organizations recognize and celebrate the vital role of child support and social service communities that provide financial aid to American families. It also seeks to create an awareness of the importance of child support, motivate social service groups, and encourage people to lend a helping hand to children in need.
There are many ways you can observe this month and do your part in ensuring each child has the necessary resources available to move ahead and live a comfortable life. If you take a small step today, you will be paving the way for a bright future for generations to come.
Child Support Awareness Month timeline
The first federal legislation on private child support is enacted.
Virginia State updates its Child Support guidelines increasing the combined gross income from $10,000 per month to $35,000 per month for the first time in 25 years.
Child Support collects $32.4 billion and serves 14.3 million children and their families.
The Child Support services distributed collections increase by almost 10%.
Child Support Awareness Month FAQs
Why should we have child support?
Every parent has a legal responsibility to ensure that their child is supported well till they reach the age of adulthood. Furthermore, children have the right to be supported financially by both their parents.
What if a parent is incarcerated?
In case a parent is imprisoned, that will not exempt them from paying for Child Support. The order may be modified by the court and the parent’s existing assets will be used to support the child. In case a parent has no assets, the court may provide a temporary abatement for the payments.
Can the Child Support amount be modified?
The court may modify the child support amount if at all there is a change in the parent’s income or the child’s requirements. One can always request the court to modify their order however, depending on the situation the court will make the final judgment.
How To Observe Child Support Awareness Month
Donate to a child support fund
When you choose to donate, even just a small amount, you may not realize the significant impact that it will have on a child’s life. Child support charities and organizations need your help to continue their selfless initiatives and your donation might also help in inspiring the people around you to support such a noble cause.
Help a friend or family out in any way
Sometimes just being there for a friend or a family member can be of great support to them. If you observe that any of your close ones are facing any issues with regard to child support, you can help them out by accompanying them to the court or any offices. You may also babysit their children for a while, offer financial aid, or even teach them simple educational subjects. Your moral support can help in encouraging and brightening the confidence of your pal and their little ones.
Learn about child support laws
Child support laws might be a bit confusing as it entails a lot of factors that determine various things such as payments, rights, settlements, etc. So it is imperative to ensure that you have a basic understanding of the laws associated with child support to help you in strengthening your backing for the cause. Parents too may lose sight of the guidelines associated with child support as each state has its own laws. Thus, having an understanding of the law can help one to navigate well through the legal procedures without any hassles.
5 Facts You Should Know About Child Support
Non-biological parents
A non-biological parent is not obligated to pay for child support unless the child has been legally adopted by them.
Specific calculation
The amount to be paid for child support is based on several factors such as time spent with the child, income of the parent, etc.
Support for differently-abled
In case the child is differently-abled, the court may extend child support beyond the age of 19.
No exemptions
If a parent is unemployed or faces a salary cut, they cannot be exempted from paying child support.
Consequences
There are consequences for not paying child support and it is considered a criminal offense.
Why Child Support Awareness Month Is Important
Promotes healthy development of the child
Children have a weaker immune system as compared to adults and in case of any potential infections, they need high-quality health care services and to reach their full potential. Every child has the right to live a healthy life and through appropriate medical attention, they can prosper thoroughly.
Child support reduces the financial burden on the parent
In case a parent is separated and is raising a child single-handedly, it can increase the financial burden on the parent. Child Support ensures they get adequate support to raise the child properly.
Child support ensures a steady upbringing
The early years of a child’s life are very crucial for their overall development. At no point of time in their growing years will they face any shortage of basic necessities. Through Child Support, parents can ensure that no stone is left unturned when it comes to the holistic grooming, skill training, education, and growth of their child. Their child will have all the essential resources at their disposal to mold themselves into efficient, capable, and well-rounded human beings.
Child Support Awareness Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | August 1 | Friday |
| 2026 | August 1 | Saturday |
| 2027 | August 1 | Sunday |
| 2028 | August 1 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | August 1 | Wednesday |
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