When can I apply to the CSA to take on maintenance

Have an existing court order that's been in place since July 08. It was varied in November 08. It has been to court a few times since but only the arrears have been varied. When can I apply to have the CSA take it on? Any ideas?

From personal experience, I would recommend to contact them as soon as possible. I waited 15 months for my ex to pay the right amount but he refused. I then decided to contact the CSA, the child maintenance figure is 3 times higher than what he wanted to pay. I supplied the evidence of his true income and the amount has been corrected. I hope it help.

I think you misunderstand. My husband is the one who is supposed to be paying. £250 a month when neither of us are currently at work. He lost his job in April and I'm on maternity leave. We want the CSA involved because we believe it to be too much. I'm just wondering when they'll take it on.

The CSA will become involved when either your husband or his ex contact them - they only get involved if one side approaches them.

A parent or person with care or a non-resident parent can ask the CSA to work out child maintenance and set up a payment arrangement.

As long as the Court Order was made after April 2003 and has been in force for at least 12 months (both of which apply to your husband's case), you can contact the CSA and ask them to take over.

And can his ex contest them getting involved as it is likely to mean she'll get less money? Also any idea what would happen with any arrears owing?

She can't contest to using the CSA if it's what your husband wants and providing that the previous conditions I mentioned are met (which they are).

I'm not sure what happens to the arrears, but the sooner your husband contacts the CSA the sooner the arrears will stop mounting...

ok thanks for your help. Unfortunately as the court order was last varied in November 08 we can't approach the CSA until that date, I presume.