Child Support Programs Save Employers Time, Money

Employers in Washington State play a vital role in the financial security of children by working cooperatively with the Division of Child Support (DCS) of the State Department of Social and Health Services.

State and federal law require DCS to issue an income withholding notice when an employee’s child support order contains withholding language. Employers can save time and money by taking advantage of two child support programs offered by DCS – the Child Support Internet Payment Service (CSIPS) and the New Hire Reporting program.

Child Support Internet Payment Service

CSIPS offers employers the opportunity to send child support payments online (www.dcsonline.dshs.wa.gov) by Electronic Funds Transfer. The program eliminates costly paperwork and labor-intensive handling costs and postage. CSIPS is easy to use, gets child support to families faster and gives employers complete control of their payments in a secure environment.

DCS also offers other electronic payment options – call the Electronic Funds Transfer hotline at 1-800-468-7422 for more information.

New Hire Reporting Program

In addition to CSIPS, employers can save money over time with the New Hire Reporting program.

In Washington, employers are required to report all newly hired or rehired employees to DCS within 20 days. The information is used to collect child support, allowing DCS to send support to children more quickly.

The information is also used by the departments of Labor & Industries and Employment Security to help detect and stop fraud. If someone is working and drawing benefits and fraud is detected, their benefits could be reduced or terminated. When employers report their new hires to DCS and fraud is detected, employers may receive a credit on their next quarterly bill. To report new hires electronically, go to www.dshs.wa.gov/newhire. For more information call 1-800-562-0479.

Doug Cheney
DSHS Division of Child Support

 
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