How to Compose a Hardship Letter for Child Support
Biological parents have a moral and legal obligation to provide for the emotional, financial and physical well-being of their child until he reaches the age of majority or is able to provide for himself. When the noncustodial parent fails to honor this obligation, the custodial parent (the one with whom the child lives) can initiate child support proceedings as a way to force the noncustodial parent to help support the child. In certain instances, a hardship letter may be required to expedite the enforcement process.
Things You'll Need
- Proof of maternity/paternity
- Proof of income (both parents)
- Divorce decree, if applicable
- Child's birth certificate
- Child's Social Security card
- Supporting documentation
Instructions
How to Compose a Hardship Letter for Child Support
Determine which avenue to take when pursuing child support. You may hire a private attorney and plead your case in court or, if you are unemployed or qualify as low-income, you may apply for assistance through your local legal aid office or Office of Child Support Enforcement/Department of Social Services at no charge. If you receive food stamps, child care assistance or welfare benefits, you automatically qualify for this free assistance. Contact your attorney or your local Office of Child Support Enforcement/Department of Social Services and find out what information and documentation you need in support of your hardship claim. Assemble your paperwork. Personalize your letter by writing directly to the person who will decide your case, if possible. Get this information from your lawyer or your contact at the Office of Child Support Enforcement/Department of Social Services. This simple act will show that you've taken initiative by going beyond the minimum. State your case clearly and directly, focusing on the fact that you are raising your child as a single parent with little to no emotional or financial support from the noncustodial parent. Explain how the absence of this support, in addition to any other setback (such as a layoff or disability) has adversely affected your ability to provide for the child. If you have a special needs child, elaborate on how much more crucial it is for both parents to contribute on a consistent basis to meet the added expenses of health care, medicine and equipment (provided the child does not receive Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security or other type of assistance, and if they do, provide proof of this). Offer solid, factual information to support your hardship claim. Furnish copies of emails, letters or any other type of communication between you and the other parent concerning the care and welfare of your child. If you have been laid off and currently receive unemployment compensation, include a copy of your determination letter, which states how much you are eligible to receive and for how long. If you are unemployed because you're caring for an elderly or disabled relative, provide proof, such as doctor's notes/instructions. Provide any other proof of your income, including bank statements, if requested. Keep a file containing all receipts for expenses you've paid for the care of your child.
