Apply for Child Support Services

What is the process?

Apply for Child Support Services

You can apply for services in several ways:
 

  1. Submit an application online, available in English or Spanish. This new state approved online application process is simple, secure, and free.
  2. Print and complete an Application for Child Support Services Packet in English or Spanish and mail to our office at 1200 Monterey Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. 
  3. Contact our office by phone at 866-901-3212 or email at [email protected] and request an application be mailed to you. 
  4. Come into our local office between office hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. and request an application.

*If you are receiving California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs), and a parent is absent from the home or establishment of legal parentage is necessary, a referral for child support services will automatically be sent by the Department of Social Services to DCSS.

Who can use this service?

California's Child Support Services Program works with parents and guardians to ensure children and families receive court-ordered financial and medical support. Either parent (the person paying support or the person receiving support), 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 California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKS) who has been referred by the county Department of Social Services. Court ordered legal guardians of a child, who do not receive Calworks may also open a case for support against both parents.

Is there a charge for this service?

Under federal law, the California Department of Child Support Services is required to charge a yearly service fee for certain, non-assisted cases. If the fee applies to you, you will receive an annual service fee assessment notice in October for each case to which the fee applies. This annual $35 fee is for cases that receive payments equal to or more than $550 when assessed on October 1.

When and where is this service offered?

This service is available throughout the year during regular business hours except during scheduled holidays.

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