Michigan currently collects 71-percent of child support payments owed by noncustodial parents. But the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services says it hopes to increase that rate by making it easier for them to pay child support.
Parents will be able to pay child support in cash at any 7-11 or Dollar General store for a convenience fee of $1.99. The service is offered through the nationwide "Pay Near Me" system.
Erin Frisch is the director of the state's Office of Child Support. She says the new method should make paying child support easier for parents.
“We look at this as a good opportunity for another way, convenient, easy way, for parents to support their children in Michigan and anywhere in the country, actually,” she said.
Bob Wheaton, a spokesman for MDHHS, says the new method is especially helpful for people who don't have checking accounts or credit cards.
(Michigan Public Radio Network)