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1. How can I apply for services to establish, enforce or modify my child support order?

You can call the Child Support Enforcement Division at 303-752-8900 to request that an application be mailed to you, visit our office and request an application or apply online at www.childsupport@state.co.us. If you do not have access to the Internet but would like to apply online, please visit our office to apply using a free computer kiosk.

2. Is there a charge for child support services?

There is a $20 application fee, payable by cash, check or money order. There is no fee requirement if you are receiving cash assistance through the Colorado Works program.

3. What happens after I submit my application?

The Child Support Enforcement Division will enter your application and the non-custodial parent’s information into the child support computer system within 20 days of receiving your application and $20 fee, if applicable. You will receive notice in the mail when your case is initiated. Your case will then be referred to the appropriate Case Specialist, who will determine the next best action.

4. Are there any other fees for services?

Federal and state law require all states to collect an annual $25 fee from the custodial parent for cases in which the custodial parent has never received cash assistance benefits in any state, and has received at least $500 in child support payments during the federal fiscal year (October 1 -September 30). The fee is deducted from the child support payment, but the non-custodial parent still receives full credit for the payment.

5. When will I begin receiving my child support payments?

If you already had a child support order when you applied, your Case Specialist will review your case to determine where the non-custodial parent is located and what action is needed to ensure you receive your child support. If the non-custodial parent is employed, your Case Specialist will send an income withholding order to the employer, which will ensure quicker receipt of your child support. If you do not have a child support order yet, it will take longer to establish the order.

6. How will I receive my child support payments?

Child support payments are processed through the Family Support Registry. There are several ways to receive your payment, including direct deposit to your bank account, an FSR Card that works like a debit card or a check mailed to you. Please contact the Family Support Registry at 303-299-9123 for more information and the necessary forms for your preferred method of payment.

7. What if the non-custodial parent lives in another state?

The Child Support Enforcement Division will review your case to determine if Colorado has legal authority over the non-custodial parent to establish, modify or enforce a child support order. If Colorado does not have legal authority, your Case Specialist will request assistance from the state in which the non-custodial parent resides. The timeframes for processing cases often are longer than when both parents reside in the same state.

8. What if I don’t know where the non-custodial parent lives?

The Child Support Enforcement Division will use all available resources to locate a non-custodial parent. You can help by giving as much information about the non-custodial parent as possible to your Case Specialist and by updating your Case Specialist when you find out any information regarding his or her whereabouts.

9. Do I have to close my case if I move to another state?

No, you may still keep your case open and we will continue to provide child support services; however, it is important that you keep your Case Specialist updated with any change of address.

10. What if I want to close my case?

As long as you are not receiving cash assistance benefits through the Colorado Works program or daycare assistance through the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program, you can close your case by sending a written request to your Case Specialist. Child support enforcement services are required when the custodial parent is receiving assistance benefits from the Colorado Works and Low-Income Child Care Assistance Programs.