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Garnishment assistance for reservists, guard members

The Defense Finance and Accounting Services (DFAS) directorate of garnishment operations is working with the Federal Office of Child Support to address issues relating to activated reservists and the payment of child support. According to a spokesperson for garnishment operations, a common scenario involves the reservist who works for a private company, is called up to duty, and has a child-support order requiring payment of child support based on the income made working for the private company. Upon activation, the reservist experiences a reduction in the amount of income he or she makes. If the reservist does not ask for a review and modification of the child-support obligation, from the child-support agency, the member can incur a large child-support arrearage while serving in the reserves. To address this concern, officials have developed the following guidelines and ask that reservists contact their state child-support agency if:

  • Their income level has changed or will change. They may be eligible for the agency to review and adjust the amount of the child support order.

  • Their support payments are being withheld from their paycheck. The state agency can ensure the withholding is transferred to DFAS on a timely basis to prevent or minimize missed payments. Also, they can ask their current employer to notify the state agency of their deployment and to provide all needed information.

  • They have a child-support hearing scheduled. The agency can try to move it up or let the court hearing officer know their service status.

  • Their child-support order includes health-care coverage for a child. The child is eligible for the military health coverage Tricare. The agency may be able to assist with registering.

Click here for more information, and check "Family Law Matters."