5 Simple Steps: Collecting Child Support

    Collecting child support can be one of the most difficult parts of divorce. Here's what you can do to get the money your child needs.  

1. Contact your state's child support agency.
The agency can help you get a child support order. Go to the Office of Child Support Enforcement Web site -- http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cse/extinf.html -- for details.

2. Gather information.
Get the name, address and Social Security number and the most recent employer of your former spouse to your local child support agency to track proof of income.  

3. Don't give up.
Keep working through your local child support enforcement agency. Complain to a supervisor that you're not getting anywhere. The National Coalition for Child Support Options has Web links to reach government officials.    

4. Learn about the costs.
Fees vary from state to state to track a delinquent parent. Some states deduct the costs of finding the parent from the child support payments.   

5. If all else fails, go to court.
Parents can file criminal charges against a delinquent spouse. Contact your local prosecutor's office.


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