In previous years, the children of Virginia have been owed billions in past due financial support, according to social services officials. With this in mind, it is important to consider alternative methods that may make the contribution of child support payments simpler. Fortunately, an online system that is designed to expedite payments in Virginia is making strides. Sources say that the use of internet or phone service methods through the Department of Social Services reached an all-time high in 2011. More than half of all payments were electronic.

The system was first launched in July 2007. Since December 2009, more than 325,000 payments have been processed. Average monthly transactions now total $2.3 million, which is an average increase of $260,000 per month.

Furthermore, the electronic services allow non-custodial parents and employers to make the payments at no cost. The systems are open and available for payments 24 hours a day. Sources report that the electronic method is additionally reliable in that it reduces the amount of payments lost in the mail. While the system facilitates the payment distribution to children, it simultaneously reduces administrative costs.

In 2011, 462,000 of Virginia's children were child support recipients. In the fiscal year, the department collected a record amount of $648 million in payments. State officials expect that payments will increase through the system.

As Virginia residents know, child support payments are fundamental for the well-being of children. These payments help keep our loved ones off of the streets. If newer electronic mediums can help secure payments for kids and reduce administrative costs, perhaps more states should switch to a similar system.

Source: WAVY News 10, "New child support system gains traction," Jan. 23, 2012