British Columbia Family Maintenance Enforcement Program
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November 9, 2009
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What We Do / How We Do It
Home > About the FMEP > What We Do / How We Do It

We monitor and enforce maintenance orders and agreements (for either child support or spousal support). Many maintenance payments are paid on time and in full, but some people like having a third party (FMEP) involved to track the payments.

If payments aren't made, we contact the payor to try to get payment voluntarily. If this doesn't work, we may take enforcement action such as:
  • Notice of Attachment (garnishment for wages, bank accounts, etc)
  • Federal Interception (Notice of Attachment for federal payments such as EI benefits and income tax returns)
  • Land Registration (lien against real estate)
  • Maintenance Lien (against personal property)
  • Reporting to the Credit Bureau
  • Drivers Licence Withholding
  • Federal Licence and Passport Denial
Our information section explains these enforcement actions in more detail.

We charge interest on late and unpaid maintenance. This interest goes to the recipient.

We can also charge the payor a default fee if two payments are late or missed within the same calendar year. The default fee is equal to one month's maintenance, to a maximum of $400.00. The fee goes to the BC government, not to the recipient.

Once a case is enrolled with us, we work with both the payor and the recipient to try and keep maintenance payments up to date. We will give you a case number and Personal Identification Number (PIN) so that you can get routine information about your case through:
  • Our InfoLine (automated phone system - available every day, all day long)
  • This website – take a tour to see what we offer.
  • Or call our office during business hours if you have questions.

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Revised: November 19, 2009
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