[Solved] CSA to CMS: Same sh*t, just a different name!

Hi folks

I have found myself battling the CSA for 12 years now, predominantly to find out the truth.

Originally my case was passed from one office to another until finally after four moves it settled in Belfast. At this point, no paperwork came with the case so the CSA set about contacting my rather vengeful ex-wife for details. Those "details" included my ex-wife's version of non-payment, ever, and my refusal to accept my children as mine. She left out the bit where I paid her for 4 years by cash, double what she stated on her benefit claims, how I had the kids 4 days a week so she could work and go out clubbing and also how, when the new boyfriend came along and wanted more cash, she refused access until I got a contact order in place.

By this point the CSA were asking for just over £14000 in arearrs plus current payment. I refused stating their figure was incorrect and that, at that time, I was a university student and therefore not liable. To cut a VERY long story short, I received a liability order I was not allowed to contest and once in employment they attached to my earnings for the sum of £500 a month (by taking 12 months of overtime into consideration). I fought and fought until finally ICE intervened and the true figures were realised - £3700!! They have amended their records, but now it has passed over to the CMS and they play dumb about ANY previous records and don't know what I'm talking about. I have rang numerous times and they say the same [censored] thing, that they have no records and are only collecting the money.

Now each time I have contacted the CSA and CMS, I am put on hold once I have cleared their security checks and on e they return, the person I am dealing with has significantly changed their demeanour towards me. They are cold to speak to, unhelpful and will not aid me with any queries or questions I have. I have no idea what is on their systems to make them change how they treat me but whatever it is, it makes dealing with them like interacting with a brick wall!! When I do get conversation before they check their systems, they say I should discuss any arrears or problems with the CSA. If that be the case, what is the point in the CMS??

I requested direct pay originally and the lady setting up my account with the CMS stated that they worked on a 2-way street principle between ex-partners and that she would push for that. After having spinal surgery and being off work, I was told they wouldn't take any monies from me as I was now earning under the threshold. Fast forward three weeks and I am now told I must pay money, even the minimum, and that all monies would be through their collect and pay service adding a nice 20%, because that is what my ex wanted, (no such thing as a two-way street now!!) The first amounts would be to the arrears for monies owed to the government - monies already paid by the first few original deductions from my earnings!!

No-one, either at the CMS or the CSA is willing to discuss anything with me regarding the above confusion. They blame each other and tell me to speak to the other organisation. They say my ex-wife details what happens with the case and they just help enforce it. No-one is willing to take responsibility for my phone calls or tell me how they have made their decisions. Even though I have asked, they also will not tell me what information about me they are holding that changes their attitudes, demeanour and behaviour towards me when I contact them by telephone and I have cleared their security. Whatever is on their systems I would hazard a guess is very detrimental towards me, biased and extremely negative (as well as most probably false!)

Does anyone know how I can deal with the CMS (the CSA in sheep's clothing!), and get them to give me answers? Also, I would love to know what information about me they see when they "log in", so I know why each person changes so much when they find me on their systems?

I apologise for the 'War & Peace' length of this topic, but I needed to get the info out there for you guys to read and see if anyone could help.

Many thanks

Oh, P.s. My MP is as much use as a chocolate fire guard as he won't go against what the CMS or CSA say and takes their word as gospel!! No change there then!!