Article Guide
The California FL-191 form plays a crucial role in the child support process, ensuring that all necessary information is accurately documented and submitted to the court. This form is specifically designed for use in child support cases and is essential for both parents involved. It includes important details such as the names and addresses of the parties, the court's information, and specifics about the child support order itself. Additionally, the FL-191 requires information about the individuals responsible for making and receiving payments, as well as the children covered under the support order. It is vital to complete this form promptly, especially if you have received a court order, as it must be submitted to the court within ten days. The confidentiality of the information provided is strictly maintained, ensuring that sensitive details are kept secure. Understanding the importance of this form and the implications of timely submission can significantly impact the effectiveness of child support enforcement and the welfare of the children involved.
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FAX NO.(Optional):
ATTORNEY OR PARTY WITHOUT ATTORNEY (Name, state bar number, and address):
ROBERT L. LAFER, CHIEF LEGAL COUNSEL, STATE BAR # 144971
COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO, DEPARTMENT OF CHILD SUPPORT SERVICES 220 WEST BROADWAY, SUITE 5003, P.O. BOX 122031
SAN DIEGO, CA
TELEPHONE NO.: (619)
ATTORNEY FOR (Name):
SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO
STREET ADDRESS: 220 W. BROADWAY, ROOM 4005
MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. BOX 120128
CITY AND ZIP CODE: SAN DIEGO, CA
BRANCH NAME: CENTRAL COURT
PETITIONER/PLAINTIFF:
RESPONDENT/DEFENDANT:
OTHER PARENT:
CHILD SUPPORT CASE REGISTRY FORM
Mother |
First form completed |
Father |
Change to previous information |
COURT PERSONNEL:
STAMP DATE RECEIVED HERE
DO NOT FILE
CASE NUMBER
SUP CT #:
DCSS #:
THIS FORM WILL NOT BE FILED IN THE COURT FILE. IT WILL BE
MAINTAINED IN A CONFIDENTIAL FILE WITH THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA.
Notice: Pages 1 and 2 of this form must be completed and delivered to the court along with the court order for support. Pages 3 and 4 are instructional only and do not need to be delivered to the court. If you did not file the court order, you must complete this form and deliver it to the court within 10 days of the date on which you received a copy of the support order. Any later change to the information on this form must be delivered to the court on another form within 10 days of the change. It is important that you keep the court informed in writing of any changes of your address and telephone number.
1.Support order information (this information is on the court order you are filing or have received). a. Date order filed:
b. |
|
Initial child support or family support order |
|
Modification |
c.Total monthly base current child or family support amount ordered for children listed below plus any monthly amount ordered payable on past due support (do not include child care, special needs, uninsured medical expenses, or travel for visitation):
(1) |
Child support: |
$ |
Reserved order |
$0 (zero) order |
Past due child support: |
$ |
|
(2) |
Family support: |
$ |
Reserved order |
$0 (zero) order |
Past due family support: |
$ |
|
(3) |
Spousal support: $ |
Reserved order |
$0 (zero) order |
Past due spousal support: |
$ |
||
(4) Wage withholding was |
ordered |
ordered but stayed until |
|
|
|||
2.Person required to pay child or family support (name): Relationship to child (specify):
3.Person or agency to receive child or family support payments (name): Relationship to child (if applicable):
4.The child support order is for the following children:
Child’s name |
Date of birth |
Social Security Number |
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Additional children are listed on a page attached to this document.
TYPE OR PRINT IN INK
Page 1 of 4
Form Adopted for Mandatory Use
Judicial Council of California
FL_191_I.DOC (5/05)
CHILD SUPPORT CASE REGISTRY FORM
Family Code, § 4014 www.courtinfo.ca.gov
PETITIONER/PLAINTIFF:
RESPONDENT/DEFENDANT: OTHER PARENT:
CASE NUMBER
SUP CT #: DCSS #:
You are required to complete the following information about yourself. You are not required to provide information about the other person, but you are encouraged to provide as much as you can. This form is confidential and will not be filed in the court file. It will be maintained in a confidential file with the State of California.
5.Father's name:
a.Date of birth:
b.Social security number:
c.Street address:
City, state, zip code:
d. Mailing address:
City, state, zip code:
e.Driver's license number: State:
f.Telephone number:
g. Employed Not Employed Employer's name:
Street address:
City, state, zip code:
Telephone number:
6.Mother's name:
a.Date of birth:
b.Social security number:
c.Street address:
City, state, zip code:
d. Mailing address:
City, state, zip code:
e.Driver's license number: State:
f.Telephone number:
g. |
Employed |
Not Employed |
|
|
|
Employer's name: |
|
Street address:
City, state, zip code:
Telephone number:
7.
A restraining order, protective order, or nondisclosure order due to domestic violence is in effect.
a. |
The order protects: |
Father |
b. |
From |
Father |
c. The restraining order expires (date):
Mother
Mother
Children
I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is true and correct.
Date:
(TYPE OR PRINT NAME) |
(SIGNATURE OF PERSON COMPLETING THIS FORM) |
FL_191_I.DOC (5/05)
CHILD SUPPORT CASE REGISTRY FORM
Page 2 of 4
INFORMATION SHEET FOR CHILD SUPPORT CASE REGISTRY FORM
(Do NOT deliver this Information Sheet to the court clerk.)
Please follow these instructions to complete the Child Support Case Registry Form (form
Both parents must complete a Child Support Case Registry Form. The information on this form will be included in a national database which, among other things, is used to locate absent parents. When you file a court order, you must deliver a completed form to the court clerk along with your court order. If you did not file a court order, you must deliver a completed form to the court clerk WITHIN 10 DAYS of the date you received a copy of your court order. If any of the information you provide on this form changes, you must complete a new form and deliver it to the court clerk within 10 days of the change. The address of the court clerk is the same as the one shown for the superior court on your order. This form is confidential and will not be filed in the court file. It will be maintained in a confidential file with the State of California.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING THE CHILD SUPPORT CASE REGISTRY FORM (TYPE OR PRINT IN INK):
If the top section of the form has already been filled out, skip down to number 1 below. If the top section of the form is blank, you must provide this information.
Front page, first box, top of form, left side: Print your name, address, telephone number, fax number, and
Front page, second box, left side: Print the name of the county and the court's address in this box. Use the same address for the court that is on the court order you are filing or have received.
Front page, third box, left side: Print the names of petitioner/plaintiff, respondent/defendant, and other parent in this box. Use the same names listed on the court order you are filing or have received.
Front page, fourth box, left side: Check the box indicating whether you are the mother or the father. If you are the attorney for the mother, check the box for mother. If you are the attorney for the father, check the box for father. Also, if this is the first time you have filled out this form, check the box by “First form completed.” If you have filled out form FL- 191 before, and you are changing any of the information, check the box by “Change to previous information.”
Front page, first box, top of form, right side: Leave this box blank for the court's use.
Front page, second box, right side: Print the court case number in this box. This number is also shown on the court papers.
Instructions for numbered paragraphs:
1.a. Enter the date the court order was filed. This date is shown in the "COURT PERSONNEL: STAMP DATE RECEIVED HERE" box on the front page at the top of the order on the right side. If the order has not been filed, leave this item blank for the court clerk to fill in.
b.If the court order you filed or received is the first child or family support order for this case, check the box by "Initial child support order or family support order". If this is a change to your order, check the box by "Modification".
c.Information regarding the amount and type of support ordered and wage withholding is on the court order you are filing or have received.
(1)Check this box if your order says that child support is ordered. If there is an amount, put it in the blank provided. If the order says the amount is reserved, check the "Reserved order" box. If the order says the amount is zero, check the "$0 (zero) order" box. Do not include child care, special needs, uninsured medical expenses, or travel for visitation. If the Order/Notice to Withhold Income for Child Support (form
(2)Check this box if your order says that family support is ordered. If there is an amount, put it in the blank provided. If the order says the amount is reserved, check the "Reserved order" box. If the order says the amount is zero, check the "$0 (zero) order" box. Do not include child care, special needs, uninsured medical expenses, or travel for visitation. If the Order/Notice to Withhold Income for Child Support (form
FL_191_I.DOC (5/05)
CHILD SUPPORT CASE REGISTRY FORM
Page 3 of 4
(3). Check the spousal support box only if a box is checked in item 1(c)(1) for child support. If it was, put the amount of spousal support in the blank provided. If the order says the amount is reserved, check the “Reserved order” box. If the order says the amount is zero, check the “$0 (zero) order” box. If the Order/Notice to Withhold Income for Child Support (form
(4). Check the “ordered” box if wage withholding was ordered with no conditions. Check the box “ordered but stayed until” if wage withholding was ordered but is not to be deducted until a later date. If the court delayed the effective date of the wage withholding enter the specific date. Check only one box in this item.
2.a. Write the name of the person who is supposed to pay child or family support.
b.Write the relationship of that person to the child.
3.a. Write the name of the person or agency that is supposed to receive child or family support payments.
b.Write the relationship of that person to the child.
4.List the full name, date of birth, and social security number for each child included in the support order. If there are more than five children included in the support order, check the box after item 4e and list the remaining children with dates of birth and social security numbers on another sheet of paper. Attach the other sheet to this form.
The local child support agency is required, under section 466(a)(13) of the Social Security Act, to place in the records pertaining to child support, the social security number of any individual who is subject to a divorce decree, support order, or paternity determination or acknowledgment. This information is mandatory and will be kept on file at the local child support agency.
Top of second page, box on left side: Print the names of the petitioner/plaintiff, respondent/defendant, and other parent in this box. Use the same names listed on the front page.
Top of second page, box on right side: Print your court case number in this box. Use the same case number as on the front page, second box, right side.
You are required to complete information about yourself. If you know information about the other person, you may also fill in what you know about him or her.
5.If you are the father in this case, list your full name in this space. See instructions for
6.If you are the mother in this case, list your full name in this space.
a.List your date of birth.
b.Write your social security number.
c.List the street address, city, state, and zip code where you live.
d.List the address, city, state, and zip code where you want your mail sent, if different from the address where you live.
e.Write your driver's license number and the state where it was issued.
f.List the telephone number where you live.
g.Indicate whether you are employed,
7.If there is a restraining order, protective order, or nondisclosure order, check this box.
a.Check the box beside each person who is protected by the restraining order.
b.Check the box beside the parent who is restrained.
c.Write the date the restraining order expires. See the restraining order, protective order, or nondisclosure order for this date.
If you are in fear of domestic violence, you may want to ask the court for a restraining order, protective order, or nondisclosure order.
You must type or print your name, fill in the date, and sign the Child Support Case Registry Form under penalty of perjury. When you sign under penalty of perjury, you are stating that the information you have provided is true and correct.
FL_191_I.DOC (5/05)
CHILD SUPPORT CASE REGISTRY FORM
Page 4 of 4
Form Specifications
| Fact Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Form Title | The form is titled "Child Support Case Registry Form" and is designated as FL-191. |
| Governing Law | This form is governed by Family Code, § 4014 of California law. |
| Confidentiality | The information submitted on this form is confidential and will not be filed in the court file. |
| Filing Requirement | Pages 1 and 2 must be completed and delivered to the court with the court order for support. |
| Deadline for Submission | If not filed with the court order, the form must be submitted within 10 days of receiving the support order. |
| Modification Notification | Any changes to the information on this form must be reported to the court within 10 days using a new form. |
| Attorney Information | The form requires the attorney's name, state bar number, and contact details if applicable. |
| Child Support Information | The form collects detailed information about the child support order, including amounts and recipients. |
California Fl 191: Usage Guidelines
Completing the California FL-191 form is an essential step in ensuring that child support information is accurately recorded. This form must be filled out carefully and submitted to the court along with the appropriate court order. It is important to provide accurate details, as the information will be maintained confidentially by the State of California.
- Begin by filling out the top section of the form. Include your name, address, telephone number, fax number (if applicable), and email address (if applicable). If you are an attorney, include your State Bar number.
- In the second box, write the name of the county and the court's address. Use the same address as shown on the court order you are filing or have received.
- In the third box, list the names of the petitioner/plaintiff, respondent/defendant, and the other parent, as they appear on the court order.
- Check the appropriate box to indicate whether you are the mother or father. If this is your first time filling out this form, check "First form completed." If you are updating previous information, check "Change to previous information."
- Leave the box for court use blank. In the next box, write the court case number as shown on your court documents.
- For section 1, enter the date the court order was filed. If it has not been filed yet, leave it blank. Indicate whether this is an initial child support order or a modification.
- Provide the total monthly amounts for child support, family support, and spousal support as specified in the court order. Check the appropriate boxes for reserved orders or zero orders if applicable.
- In section 2, write the name of the person required to pay support and their relationship to the child.
- In section 3, write the name of the person or agency that will receive support payments, along with their relationship to the child.
- List the names, dates of birth, and social security numbers for each child included in the support order. If there are more than five children, attach a separate sheet with their information.
- On the second page, repeat the names of the petitioner/plaintiff, respondent/defendant, and other parent, as well as the court case number.
- Complete your personal information in section 5 if you are the father, or section 6 if you are the mother. Include your date of birth, social security number, addresses, driver's license number, telephone number, and employment status.
- If there is a restraining order or protective order, check the relevant boxes and provide the expiration date of the order.
- Finally, type or print your name, fill in the date, and sign the form under penalty of perjury, confirming that the information provided is true and correct.
Your Questions, Answered
What is the purpose of the California FL-191 form?
The California FL-191 form, also known as the Child Support Case Registry Form, is used to collect and maintain information related to child support cases. It ensures that both parents provide necessary details to the court, which helps in tracking child support payments and locating absent parents. This form is confidential and will not be filed in the court's public records; instead, it is kept in a secure file with the State of California.
Who needs to complete the FL-191 form?
When should the FL-191 form be submitted to the court?
What information is required on the FL-191 form?
Is the information on the FL-191 form public?
Common mistakes
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Inaccurate Personal Information: Failing to provide correct names, addresses, or contact details can lead to significant delays in processing.
-
Missing Signatures: Omitting a signature on the form can result in rejection. Ensure that the form is signed by the person completing it.
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Incorrect Court Case Number: Entering the wrong court case number can cause confusion and misdirect the filing process.
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Not Checking Required Boxes: Forgetting to check the appropriate boxes for initial orders or modifications can lead to processing errors.
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Omitting Child Information: Failing to list all children covered under the support order can result in incomplete records.
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Ignoring Confidentiality: Not understanding that the form is confidential and should not be filed in the court file can lead to privacy issues.
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Not Updating Changes: Failing to submit a new form within 10 days of any changes in information can lead to outdated records.
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Incorrect Support Amounts: Entering wrong amounts for child, family, or spousal support can cause financial discrepancies.
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Incomplete Employment Information: Not providing complete employment details can hinder the processing of support payments.
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Missing Instructions: Ignoring the instructions for filling out the form can lead to multiple errors and potential rejections.
Documents used along the form
The California FL-191 form is an essential document used in child support cases, particularly for registering child support orders with the state. When dealing with child support, several other forms may be required to ensure that all aspects of the case are handled correctly. Below is a list of common documents often used alongside the FL-191 form, each serving a specific purpose in the child support process.
- FL-195: Order/Notice to Withhold Income for Child Support - This form is used to notify an employer to withhold a portion of an employee's wages to cover child support payments. It is essential for ensuring that payments are made consistently and on time.
- FL-150: Income and Expense Declaration - This document provides a detailed account of a person's income and expenses. It helps the court determine the appropriate amount of child support based on the financial situation of both parents.
- FL-300: Request for Order - This form is filed to request changes or modifications to existing child support orders. It allows parents to ask the court for adjustments based on changes in circumstances, such as income or custody arrangements.
- FL-320: Responsive Declaration to Request for Order - If a parent receives a Request for Order (FL-300), they can use this form to respond. It allows the responding parent to present their side of the case and any relevant information regarding the support request.
- FL-341: Child Custody and Visitation Application - This form is used when parents need to establish or modify custody and visitation arrangements. It is often filed alongside child support documents to ensure that custody issues are addressed in tandem with financial support.
Understanding these forms can make navigating the child support process smoother and more efficient. Each document plays a vital role in ensuring that both parents fulfill their responsibilities and that children's needs are met. Keeping these forms organized and readily available can help alleviate some of the stress associated with child support cases.
Similar forms
The California FL-191 form is a Child Support Case Registry Form. Several other documents serve similar purposes in family law and child support cases. Here’s a list of seven documents that share similarities with the FL-191 form:
- FL-195: Order/Notice to Withhold Income for Child Support - This form is used to initiate wage withholding for child support payments. Like the FL-191, it ensures that child support obligations are met by automatically deducting payments from the payer's income.
- FL-300: Request for Order - This document allows a party to request a court order regarding child support or modification of existing orders. Similar to the FL-191, it requires detailed information about the parties involved and the support amounts.
- FL-150: Income and Expense Declaration - This form provides a comprehensive overview of a party's financial situation. It complements the FL-191 by helping the court determine appropriate child support amounts based on the income of the parents.
- FL-341: Child Support Information and Order Attachment - This attachment is used to provide additional details about child support orders. It works in conjunction with the FL-191 to ensure all necessary information is available to the court.
- FL-311: Notice of Motion to Modify Child Support - This document is filed when one party seeks to change an existing child support order. It shares the purpose of keeping the court informed, similar to the FL-191.
- FL-630: Child Support Case Registry Form - This form is specifically designed for registering child support cases. It serves a similar function to the FL-191, ensuring that information is recorded and accessible for child support enforcement.
- FL-320: Child Support Order - This is the actual court order that establishes child support obligations. The FL-191 is often submitted alongside this order to provide the necessary information for the child support case registry.
Understanding these forms and their relationships can help ensure that child support matters are handled efficiently and correctly. It’s crucial to keep all information up-to-date and submitted in a timely manner to avoid complications.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the California FL-191 form, it is essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Here are six important things to do and avoid:
- Do provide accurate information about yourself and the other parties involved.
- Do complete all required sections of the form before submission.
- Do deliver the completed form to the court within the specified timeframe.
- Do keep a copy of the form for your records.
- Don't leave any required fields blank; this may delay processing.
- Don't submit the form without checking for errors or omissions.
Following these guidelines can help ensure that your form is processed smoothly and efficiently. If you have any questions or need assistance, consider reaching out for support.
Misconceptions
Understanding the California FL 191 form is essential for anyone navigating child support cases. However, several misconceptions often arise. Here are six common misunderstandings:
- This form must be filed in court. Many believe that the FL 191 form is a court filing. In reality, it is not filed in the court file but is kept confidential with the State of California.
- Only one parent needs to complete the form. It's a common myth that only one parent is responsible for filling out this form. Both parents are encouraged to complete a Child Support Case Registry Form to ensure accurate information.
- Information on the form is public. Some individuals think the details provided on the FL 191 form are public records. However, the information is confidential and maintained securely by the state.
- You can submit the form at any time. There is a misconception that timing is flexible. In fact, the form must be delivered to the court within 10 days of receiving a court order or any changes to the information.
- All pages of the form need to be submitted. Many assume that all pages of the FL 191 must be filed with the court. Only pages 1 and 2 need to be submitted; pages 3 and 4 are instructional and not required for filing.
- Filling out the form is optional. Some people believe that completing the FL 191 is optional. In truth, it is a requirement for maintaining accurate records in child support cases.
Clearing up these misconceptions can help ensure that the process goes smoothly and that all necessary steps are taken to comply with child support regulations in California.
Key takeaways
Filling out the California FL-191 form is essential for child support cases. Here are key takeaways to keep in mind:
- Confidentiality: This form is confidential and will not be filed in the court file. It will be maintained in a confidential file with the State of California.
- Timeliness: Submit the form within 10 days of receiving a copy of the support order if you did not file it initially.
- Accurate Information: Ensure all information provided is accurate, including names, addresses, and support amounts.
- Changes: Report any changes to the information on this form within 10 days using a new form.
- Support Order Details: Include specific details from the court order, such as the date filed and the amounts ordered for child support, family support, and spousal support.
- Multiple Children: If there are more than five children involved, list them on an additional sheet and attach it to the form.
- Restraining Orders: Indicate if there is a restraining order in effect, including details about who is protected and the expiration date.
- Signature Requirement: Sign the form under penalty of perjury, affirming that the information is true and correct.
- Delivery: Deliver the completed form to the court clerk along with the court order for support.