As a parent of a child in Massachusetts, you typically have some rights to child support from the other parent. You do need to be entitled to those payments, though. If you can answer these questions with “yes,” then you likely are eligible to receive child support.
First, are you the custodial parent of your child? If you have primary custody of your little one, then you’re likely able to receive child support. If you’re responsible for day-to-day care or have been designated as the custodial parent by the courts, then this likely means you should be receiving support.
Next, if you share joint custody, both you and your child’s other parent are considered custodial parents. The person who receives child support is determined by looking at your income and the income of the other parent. If you have a large income but the other parent has a small income, you may end up paying support. If it’s reversed, you may receive child support.
There are, of course, other considerations, too. You need to know where the other parent is to get child support payments ordered. The other parent must be legally the father, or mother in some cases, of the child. If you’ve gone to family court, did you get a child support order? If you haven’t, this is something you need to do.
Getting child support can seem like a daunting task, but if you’re ready to get the money you need to support your child, you don’t have to manage the case alone. With the right help and support, you may be able to get your compensation more quickly.
Source: FindLaw, “Are You Eligible for Child Support?” Oct. 15, 2014