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After setting up a direct debit to pay off £650 arrears in 2002 the CSA got in touch 2 weeks ago to inform me that £250 was still owing because they changed their system & lost my bank details. with no contact for 10 years they are now threatening legal action to recover money not collected due to their bad procedures. Any advice appreciated!
I would say that, assuming you don't dispute that you owe this money, that you contact them and make an offer to pay it off over a suitable period (6 - 8 months perhaps) and start paying them that immediately (if you send a written reply, enclose a cheque with the letter) and make sure you pay on time every month until it's paid off.
My reason for suggesting this course of action is that if the CSA refuse to accept the terms, then they are going to have to take you to court to recover the money - any resonable court is going to turn round and tell the CSA that they are being completely unreasonable, and the CSA know that, so will probably accept your offer.
This link may help as it gives an idea of the procedure: http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/MoneyTaxAndBenefits/ManagingDebt/Makingacourtclaimformoney/DG_195886
I'll ask the Child Maintenance options to pop on and give an opinion.
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