CSA and IVA

[SamM]

Hi,

I have recently had an IVA accepted and have since got a girl pregnant. She says she will not consider an abortion. I obviously do not have any money left over and was wondering what options I will have with regard to the existing IVA and potential interest from the CSA.

[MelanieGiles]

You will have to face your financial responsibilities as any other chap would have to under the circumstances. Under curretn CSA guidelines, you will be required to pay over 15% of your salary to the child's mother, and if this affects your ability to make your IVA payments, this will need to be discussed with your IP.

[SamM]

Hi Melanie,

Thanks for your reply.

I am not trying to get out of paying for my child, which will obviously be my first priority, I am just trying to find out what usually happens in this situation as I am sure I am not unique. The IVA takes ALL spare income I have, so there is none left over to allow me to take responsibility for both. I was wondering about the following.

1. Is it likely that I will be able to renegotiate the IVA, or would I be forced into bankruptcy?

2. Which takes precedence? I guess from your reply that would be the CSA.

3. When should I notify my IVA supervisor? The mother is 14 weeks pregnant and is already asking me for money for maternity wear and such.

[MelanieGiles]

On point one - anything is possible, but you will need to rework your income and expenditure to see how much you can afford to pay per month after the baby arrives.

On point two - CSA proceedings are completely outside of the IVA function, so they will assess you and you will have to pay. It might be easier to come to some form of private arrangement with the baby's mother in advance.

You should advise your supervisor as soon as possible, so that a reappraisal of your finances can take place.

[SamM]

Thank you for your help Melanie.

[MelanieGiles]

And good luck with the little one. It may gave been unexpected, but children bring such joy into your life (and cost a fortune!). I hope everything goes well for you in the future.

[SamM]

Thanks! Looking forward to it.