Understanding Form 27A: Request for Statement of Income in Ontario
If you're involved in a legal proceeding in Ontario that concerns missed payments under a court order or domestic contract, you may encounter the need to prepare or respond to a Form 27A: Request for Statement of Income. This official document is an essential part of the process to verify a payor’s income and ensure compliance with court orders related to financial support or obligations.
When to Use Form 27A
This form is typically used in situations where the court has ordered a payor—such as a spouse, partner, or individual responsible for payments—to provide a detailed statement of their income. If the payor has failed to make the required payments, the recipient or their legal representative can request the court to enforce compliance by obtaining this statement.
Specifically, Form 27A is used to initiate the process of collecting income information when there are concerns about missed payments under:
- An order for spousal or child support
- A domestic contract involving financial obligations
By requesting this statement, the court can assess the payor’s actual income and determine whether enforcement or adjustment of payments is necessary.
What Information Does the Form Require?
Form 27A gathers comprehensive details about the involved parties to facilitate the request:
- Court information: Court file number, name of court, court office address
- Recipient details: Full legal name and contact information of the person requesting the statement, including lawyer’s details if applicable
- Payor details: Full legal name, address, and contact information, along with lawyer’s details if applicable
- Income source: Name and address of the individual or entity providing income
The form also contains a declaration that the payor has missed payments under a court order or domestic contract, and it instructs the recipient to prepare and send a statement of income using Form 27B.
How to Complete and Submit Form 27A
Once filled out, the form must be mailed within 10 days of being served with the notice to the specified person or address. Failure to comply may result in the court ordering the recipient to produce the statement, and they could be liable for court costs.
Fill in your form directly online
No printing: type your details into the boxes of the official form, tick, then download the PDF ready to send.
- 1Type into the form boxes
- 2Tick in one click
- 3Save and download the PDF
It is crucial to ensure all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays. If you are unsure about how to fill out the form or which details are necessary, consulting a lawyer or contacting the court office is advisable.
Points of Attention and Practical Tips
- Timeliness: Adhere to the 10-day mailing requirement to prevent potential sanctions or court orders.
- Completeness: Verify that all recipient and payor details, including lawyer contact information if applicable, are accurate and current.
- Attachment of Form 27B: Ensure the statement of income is prepared and attached as instructed. If missing, contact your lawyer or the court office promptly.
- Legal implications: Failure to respond or provide the requested information may lead to enforcement measures or court costs being assigned.
Conclusion
Form 27A is a vital tool within Ontario's family law and court enforcement processes, designed to facilitate the collection of income information when there are concerns about missed payments. Proper completion and timely submission are essential to ensure that the court can accurately assess the payor’s income and enforce or modify support obligations accordingly. If you find yourself needing to use this form, consider seeking legal advice to navigate the process smoothly and in compliance with court requirements.