Section 25.13 Uniform Interstate Family Support Act Players Defined

• Library: Family Law Deskbook and 2014 Supp

D. (§25.13) Uniform Interstate Family Support Act Players Defined

UIFSA defines a “[c]hild” to include any individual owed a duty of support from a parent, without regard to that individual’s age. Section 454.850(1), RSMo Supp. 2011. The age at which a child becomes an adult, like the age at which a parent’s duty of support ends, is a matter for state law. UIFSA 1996 § 101 cmt.

UIFSA defines an “[o]bligee” as the individual who is owed a duty of support, whether actually or allegedly. Section 454.850(12)(i). In cases involving spousal support, the person to whom a duty of support is owed and the person receiving actual payments are usually the same person. In cases involving child support orders, however, a child is the person to whom the duty of support is owed and can be considered the ultimate obligee. An obligee, however, usually refers to the person actually receiving payments, which is usually the custodial parent. A state or political subdivision that has been assigned support obligations to recoup Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, 42 U.S.C. §§ 601 et seq., formerly known as Aid to Families
With Dependent Children, payments is also considered to be an obligee under UIFSA. Section 454.850(12)(ii). An obligee can additionally be an individual who has won a support order or a judgment...