Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Separated parents will be penalised if they cannot reach an amicable agreement over child support under a new system that comes into force today.
Mothers and fathers who turn to the Child Maintenance Service (CMS) to collect and pay settlements face losing significant sums of cash. Non-resident parents will be forced to hand over 20 per cent on top of the payments and the other parent will lose 4 per cent of the money received.
Applications to use the new system will cost £20 and those who have to be pursued will also be hit by extra charges of up to £300. Ministers insist the reforms are being introduced to encourage parents to work together, freeing up the service so it can focus on the most challenging cases.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments