The FRO's "How the Program Works" document is on a broken link on their web-site so here's their document. As stated the have a rather singular focus, "We will do our best to make sure families get their support payments...", the second half of this statement is of questionable value but continues ..."This means we will work with both the recipient and payor to help ensure that the terms of their support order are met." This is a mysterious statement because they are not an aid to mediation if your circumstances change, nor are they permitted to accept less than the full amount outlined in the support order. They are not about fairness to the family, they are about money for the custodial parent. Your health and welfare are not their concern.
I've discussed the tactics the FRO has at their disposal in cornering the so-called "deadbeat dad" into clearing any arrears he has owing. How you deal with the FRO from day one effects how they look at you as the process continues. The initial invasive demands for financial information seems out of line. You may be busy, and the forms long, but a prompt response is just the first step. In effect you are getting your situation on-the-record with them. Will it make a difference to what they expect from you, no. Do it anyway because it will show you want to co-operate. It is also required by law so check out get the form (online form - click here/pdf file - click here) and fill that in ASAP. BTW: It only looks line an on-line form. You'll need to submit it using traditional paper methods.
Remember, be honest and realistic when filling the financial statement, it's a legal document.
If they're after you for arrears or not if you're enrolled in the program you are attached at the hip. You are required to notify them of any changes in phone numbers, addresses, or workplace. Why? because they need to be able to notify you or your employer if you fall behind. If this feels invasive that's because it is. You will feel like a criminal being stocked by the law, in their eyes you are. If you're not paid up, expect harassment. If you are paid up, make sure that you keep track of the payments you make. Their accounting crew are not the brightest bulbs and can't calculate things if your ahead, but get nasty if you're behind. Get a statement at least once a year. They may try to charge you for it, refuse, they're handling your money they owe it to you. Insist on the financial statement.
Everything received at the FRO takes a minimum of 2 weeks to get entered into the system. This means any correspondence that's sent isn't available for processing for two weeks. If you have an amendment to your support order you'd better follow up on it, but give them that 2 week lead time to even acknowledge it's receipt. This counts for letters and faxes and it is from the date it is received!
While this is a lost luxury, it is your best means of avoiding conflict with the FRO. If you have a job, do everything to keep it. Don't accelerate yourself into obsolescence because being laid off or dismissed is not a forgivable offense to the FRO. If you have a nice, safe union job, do everything you can to keep it. If things look like there's a change on the horizon, do all you can to find your next gig before you're on Employment Insurance. Work locally where possible, keep your costs low, and live conservatively. Building up savings may seem impossible, but it will serve you well if unexpected expenses arise.
to be continued...