In New York, both parents are legally responsible for supporting their children until they turn 21 years old. If one parent is unwilling to pay for their kid’s upkeep — including food, clothing, medical care and education — whoever is bearing the financial burden has the option of filing a child support claim with the Office of Child Support Services (OCSS). Legal guardians can also ask to set, change or enforce a child support order, with the final amount set based on the child’s needs and the parent’s financial situation.
The OCSS handles child support claims and serves all parents and guardians regardless of their immigration status.
How can I apply for child support?
To apply for child support in New York City, open a case by completing the New York State online enrollment.
You can also apply in person by submitting the completed enrollment form and the Family Safety Screening form at designated Family Court locations or through borough offices, depending on whether they are receiving public cash assistance.
Parents who receive cash assistance are typically scheduled for intake interviews at their borough’s OCSS office, while those not receiving assistance can visit Family Court intake offices directly.
How does child support work in NYC?
Once you submit an application, OCSS helps establish or locate the noncustodial parent and determine legal parentage if paternity has not already been established. This may involve DNA testing coordinated through OCSS Paternity Services. After parentage is confirmed, the case moves forward to Family Court, where a child support order is established and payment obligations are determined based on income and family circumstances.
Use the Child Support Calculator tool to get an estimate of how much child support a non-custodial parent could be required to pay in New York City.
After a child support order is issued, OCSS manages payment collection and enforcement. Parents can contact OCSS by phone, email, mail, or through the in-person customer service centers for case updates, payment questions, modifications to existing orders, payment plans, or enforcement assistance.
The agency also provides online resources through the NYC and New York State child support website, where parents can access forms, account information, and additional guidance throughout the process.
The NYS Child Support Helpline is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at 888-208-4485 or 866-875-9975 for the Hearing Impaired.
What is the Career Track Program?
The Career Track program is an employment program for non-custodial parents who have an NYC child support case. Jobs and training are available in construction, transportation, healthcare support and operations, Green & Clean HVAC, IT support and Cybersecurity. People can access additional support through this program, including individualized career coaching, resume help, interview practice, job search support and child support navigation.
Interested applicants should email careertrack@hra.nyc.gov with their full name, their NYC child support case ID, and up-to-date contact information.
