CMS arrears are unpaid child maintenance payments that have not been made. They build up over time if payments are missed or incorrectly calculated. Learn more →
Arrears are based on the amount CMS says should have been paid, minus the amount actually paid. Always compare the CMS calculation against your own payment records in case any payments have been missed or incorrectly recorded. Further guidance →
Yes. If arrears are wrong, you can challenge them using evidence and the formal dispute process as per this websites Homepage and its 13 steps process: See steps →
CMS can take enforcement action, including deductions from wages, bank accounts, or legal action through the courts. Follow the steps →
Yes. CMS may allow instalments depending on your situation, but it’s important the agreement is recorded correctly. If your agree a repayment plan with the CMS, ask for written confirmation and keep it with your records in case the agreement is disputed later. Guidance →
CMS does not usually charge interest, but enforcement action can increase pressure. Start here →
You can check via your CMS account or by contacting them. Always compare this with your own records. Learn how →
You must provide evidence and request correction. A structured challenge is more effective. Steps here →
Yes. If the arrears decision carries a right of appeal, you would normally request a Mandatory Reconsideration (MR) first. If you still disagree after receiving the Mandatory Reconsideration Notice (MRN), you may then be able to appeal to the First-tier Tribunal. If you need help preparing your Mandatory Reconsideration request, Purchase Step 8 of the websites guidance, but first read the Homepage and then view the steps page in the menu on the website: See how →
Arrears are separate but may be collected alongside current maintenance.
Yes via your CMS account, but always keep your own records. Learn more →
Arrears generally remain outstanding until they are pid, corrected or otherwise resolved. Keep your records for the duration of the case and afterwards in case any dispute arises.. Start here →
Your records protect you if CMS data is incorrect. Guidance →
In some circumstances CMS may decided not to pursue certain arrears or the parent receiving the Child Maintenance payments can request this but parents should not assume arrears will be written off. Each case depends on the circumstances. Avoid common mistakes →
Yes. They can request for an EOD (Earnings of Deductions) order direct from your (Bank, Employer, Agency company based on your Gross figure ie before Tax & NI. Avoid common mistakes →
If the arrears are disputed then the underlying decision may also need to be challenged using the appropriate review and appeal process via the cms direct. If there is a dispute with your own correspondence that may contradict the decision regarding the arrears, then following this websites 13 steps may be a better way to challenge the decision and gather any further information from the CMS database so that you can cross check and read for yourself aswell as having actual physical evidence. Avoid common mistakes →