Open a child support case

Either parent, or the caretaker/ guardian of a child, may open a child support case by completing an application.  DCSS will also open a case for any individual receiving TANF and/or Medi-Cal who has been referred by the county Welfare Department.   The more information the custodial party gives about the case, the better service DCSS can provide.

Locate the parent

To get an order for support, establish paternity or enforce a child support order, DCSS must know where the non-custodial parent lives or works.  DCSS will make every effort to locate the non-custodial parent.

Establish paternity

If paternity (fatherhood) has not been established, DCSS will take the necessary steps to establish paternity. (Paternity must be established before child and medical support can be ordered by the court).

Establish a support order 

If a court order for child support does not already exist, and the non-custodial parent is located, one will be sought by DCSS and established by the court based on both parents ability to pay support, the amount of time the child spends with each parent, and the financial needs of the child.  DCSS will also request that the court require the non-custodial parent to provide health insurance for the child.  The court will order the non-custodial parent to provide health insurance if it is available at a reasonable cost.

Enforcement of support orders

DCSS will take steps to enforce court orders for child and medical support. Enforcement action will be taken by DCSS if the non-custodial parent does not pay or pays less than the amount ordered, or if the non-custodial parent does not provide health insurance for the child as ordered by the court.  DCSS will determine what type of enforcement action is to be taken, consistent with state and federal regulations.

Modification(s)

The custodial party and/or non-custodial parent subject to a support order in the state have the right to request that Child Support Services (DCSS) review the support order to determine if the amount of support should be changed based on state-wide criteria.