CS from 2005

[Jaffaz]

Just need a bit of advice. My DH pays CS for his 2 older children through CSA, we always lodge tax returns on time so assumed that his CS was correct and up to date. On Friday he received a call from CSA that they were reviewing his file and found that for a period in 2005 he estimated an amount but according to his tax return earned alot more resulting in a debt of over $4000. The thing is it's now 2010 so I am a little concerned as to why this has only come up now and not back then, given that they have had all the info for 5 years. The other issue is that his x never lodges tax returns (she works a few days a week) on all of the letters we have recieve her income is alway "provisional". I also think the amount they are claiming he earnt is very high, I don't think he has ever earnt that much, and to make it more complicated the CS period doesn't line up with the financial year.

So what I want to know, is their a time fram on CSA adjusting payments? and how can they work out we have short paid without her correct income details?

This has come at a very bad time for us as we just had our 2nd baby and currently living on 1 income. Plus DH eldest has asked to come and live with us, so things are already a bit strained with DH and his Ex while they decide on living arrangements, and if their DS is old enough to make that decision for himself. And DH now thinks she requested the review (would this be the case??). I hope things don't get to messy iykwim.

Thanks Ladies (bit of a vent sorry)

[Amity]

Go and talk to the CHild Support Legal Service (they're part of Victoria Legal Aid, Queen Street office).

They can give you advice about what to do and where to go if your DH disputes the CSA findings.

PS THey can go back 7 years...