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The CSA doesn't charge for its services and it aims to set up the arrangement within 12 weeks of you applying. Here are some other things you'll need to think about before deciding if an arrangement through the CSA is best for you.

Do you want to have contact with the other parent?

    * You don't have to be in contact with the other parent, or even know where they live.
    * Even if the parent without main day-to-day care won't accept responsibility for the child, the CSA can try to trace them and put in place an arrangement.

Could you work together and trust each other?

    * If the parent without the main day-to-day care isn't willing to co-operate or share their income, the CSA can get details from their employer or the Government.
    * However, the more legal things become between you and the other parent, the harder it may be on your relationship with them.
    * If you and the other parent can find a way to work together without involving anyone else, it may be easier on your child and your relationship with the other parent.

Could you keep the agreement going?

    * If you have failed to make a private agreement work before, an arrangement using the CSA may be a more reliable option for you.
    * The CSA can ensure the parent without main day-to-day care met their financial responsibilities.
    * An arrangement through the CSA is legally binding.

Can you manage changes in circumstances?

    * You don't have to manage changes in circumstances or agree anything with the other parent. But you do have to inform the CSA if your circumstances change significantly.

    * Changes that could influence child maintenance include:
        * the income of the parent without main day-to-day care
          *how many children you or the other parent have or support
          *how many nights a week the child spends with each of you.

Do you want to keep control?

    * Once you ask the CSA to set rules, e.g. on how much maintenance should be paid, you have to follow their decision.

    * But if you feel the arrangement using the CSA isn't working, you can always ask them to support you in making a private agreement.