Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost?
If you have never received public assistance (CalWORKs) or if you received more than $500 in child support payments the previous year, the State charges a $35 annual service fee. Otherwise, our services are free.
How do I sign up for child support?
To get started with child support services, simply complete our short online enrollment form. Once we receive your form, a Child Support Specialist will contact you to help you with the rest of the process. Click here to enroll.
I completed the enrollment form. How long will it take to get child support?
How long it will take to start receiving payments will depend on several factors unique to your case, such as whether you already have a court order, if you know where the other parent is located, or the employment status of the other parent.
I already have a court order for child support. Can I still enroll for services?
Yes, we can enforce your court order for child support to collect payments for you.
I am having trouble making my child support payments? Can you help?
The child support specialist assigned to your case can help you find solutions. Depending on your situation, this might include requesting a change to your child support order, reducing your back child support through our Debt Reduction Program, or providing you with information on employment services and other resources.
What is the Debt Reduction Program?
The Debt Reduction Program provides eligible parents who owe back child support (also called “arrears”) with an opportunity to reduce the amount of arears owed to the government. You can find more information here or by contacting us.
How can I get information about my case?
We try to make it easy for you to get information about your case by offering several options:
- During regular business hours Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00pm:
- Call us at 1-866-901-3212 to speak with a Customer Service Representative.
- You can reach us by Zoom video conference from any internet-connected device by clicking on or scanning this QR code:
- You can visit our office at 5669 Gibraltar Drive, Pleasanton, CA [link to google maps]
- If you have a child support case with us, you can access information anytime online through Customer Connect.
How do I pay my child support?
The easiest way to pay is through payroll deduction from your employer. We send information on employers on how to do this. You can also pay by credit card, directly from your bank account, or through PayPal, Pay Near Me, MoneyGram, or by check or money order. Click here for details:” Payment Options | CA Child Support Services. Fees may be charged for certain payment options