New law may require your agency to send child support payments electronically

Effective January 1, 2019 certain employers must send child support payments electronically to the Department of Social and Health Services Division of Child Support (DCS).

Under this new law, an employer or other business that has received an Income Withholding for Support orders (IWO) from DCS requiring payments to the Washington State Support Registry must send payments through Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT).

The new law applies to employers that have:

• 10 or more employees/contractors that receive an IWO or
• Fewer than 10 employees if the employer receives more than one IWO or
• if the employer uses a payroll processing company or
• if the employer is required to file and pay taxes electronically to the Department of Revenue.

DCS is working hard to make this transition as easy as possible. Employers can pay online or choose from other electronic payment options. Employers are encouraged to switch to electronic payments early and avoid a crunch as the deadline approaches. In addition, the new law includes options for exemptions or a waiver for those who qualify. Employers also can call DCS Central Services EFT Customer Service at 800-468-7422 for assistance.

You can find updated information and register for the upcoming webinar, the Basics of Child Support for Employers, at www.childsupportonline.wa.gov.