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How does the BC Family Maintenance Agency (BCFMA) work? What can it do?

Last updated on September 19, 2025

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About BCFMA services

BCFMA services are:

  • Client-centric
  • Inclusive
  • Adaptive to the needs of their clients

BCFMA takes a balanced approach to family support services. They listen to, collaborate with and work with all parties to achieve the best outcomes for children and families.

If you are a recipient

BCFMA can take a variety of steps to support recipients of family support payments, for example:

  • BCFMA will work with the payor to develop a plan for paying the ongoing support payments
  • BCFMA will work with the payor to develop a plan for paying any arrears owing
  • If a voluntary payment plan does not work, BCFMA may take additional actions to collect your payments

BCFMA cannot send you money unless they receive the money from the payor first.

BCFMA cannot change your court order or agreement for support to a different amount or a different payment schedule.

If your circumstances have changed, you can work with the other party to write a new agreement. You can also work with the other party to apply to the court for a new order.

If you are a payor

If you fall behind on your payments, BCFMA will help you come up with a plan to pay:

  • Your ongoing support payments
  • Any arrears owing

If a voluntary payment plan does not work, BCFMA may consider taking further action.

BCFMA understands that sometimes it may be difficult for you to make your payments on time and in full. BCFMA does not have the authority to change the amount of support you are required to pay under a court order or agreement. However, there are a number of resources available in B.C. to help.

More information

For more information, please:

Please talk to a lawyer if you require legal advice.

Access free family justice services in person or virtually at Family Justice Centres and Justice Access Centres.

  • Staff across B.C. can help you understand your options during separation or divorce. They can talk with you and assess your needs, and provide information about:
    • Parenting arrangements
    • Guardianship
    • Child and spousal support
    • Contact with a child
    • Property division respecting a companion animal 
  • To find the location nearest you, see the list of Family Justice Centre locations

Take a free Parenting After Separation course.

Find more family law information and legal help:

In a joint divorce, you and your spouse apply together for a simple, uncontested divorce. You both agree on all family law issues that affect your family and only need to apply for a divorce order.

Apply for a joint divorce

B.C. has a central authority that helps parents when someone takes their children to another country without permission. For details and contact information visit the International child abduction page.