Starting Your Child Support Case

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• After a case is opened, how long does it take to receive child support payments?

  The length of time to receive child support payments varies by case.

  For instance, a case that needs an order established may take longer to receive payments than a case opening from a divorce action.

• How can I obtain a copy of my court order?

  You will need to request a copy of your order from the County of San Diego Superior Court Clerk's. Please access their website to determine which location has your court case file.

• Why did the HHSA office refer my case to DCSS?

  If a child is receiving cash aid, a referral is automatically sent to DCSS.

• Can DCSS establish an order if I don't know where the noncustodial parent is working?

  Yes, DCSS will still be able to establish an order.

• Does DCSS provide legal help with child custody or visitation?

  Through a federal grant, DCSS does have the ability to help eligible parents get a custody and visitation order along with their initial child support order. For more information, click here.

  If parents already have a visitation order, and it needs to be changed, you may contact the Family Law Facilitator for assistance.

• Can DCSS help me with Supervised Visitation?

  No. You will need to review the Visitation Monitors Program Resource List.

• I am paying child support, but now I have the custody of my child. Can I close my case & stop paying?

  Contact DCSS for information about case closure.

• How can I contact my child? I pay child support but don't know how to contact my child.

  DCSS is unable to release personal information or forward items from one parent to another.

• How can I re-open my case?

  To re-open your case, click here to access the electronic application.