Despite Nevada’s Updated System, Some Parents Still Waiting for Child Support

Author: Nevada Globe Staff

NEVADA -A single mother of three in Washoe County works hard each day to support her children. She relies on child support payments. When she didn’t receive any state garnishment checks in August, she panicked.

The mother requested anonymity.

She replied, “I burned up my funds and was pinching pennies.”

She contacted her case worker after a few weeks and found a new child support system was in place. Her ex-new husband’s job wasn’t in the system.

When she asked about a timeline, she got more questions than answers.

“There was no ETA, schedule, or information on where they were or when it may be resolved,” she said.

In April, Washoe County’s Division of Welfare and Supportive Services adopted NVKids.

Julie Knight, DWSS Public Information Officer, said they used outdated technology.

Knight said the 1980s-era NOMADS system needed an update. With substantial modifications, some cases may be missed, she added. The state wants to adopt this system in October.

Knight added, “We’re trying to minimize the damage, but there’s no assurance a few will slip through the gaps.”

She waited for weeks. She contacted her caseworker repeatedly, looking for money.

She responded, “Totaling up his wages, I estimate we’re around $3,500.”

The mother received a call claiming the situation was rectified.

“I still don’t have an updated timeframe, but maybe progress has been made,” she said.

She was relieved to get that call.

“We have holidays, so knowing those things are taken care of will be a tremendous stress relief.”

Credits: KOLOTV / Photo: Organic Mom