Did you know?
Did you know that when someone receives TANF, a child support case opens automatically? More information about TANF and child support is in FAQs below.
If you are new to the Division of Child Support, you will need to submit some paperwork to get our services.
- How do I enroll to receive child support?
I want to open a child support case, and start receiving support:
Step 1:
You can request applications be mailed to you through our online form or by calling 800-442-KIDS (5437), or you can pick up forms at any our nine offices.
Or you can PRINT the forms you need through these links:
Both Form 18-078 and form 14-057
Form 18-433 (Only if you have a child support order)
Español: Imprima estos formularios:
18-433sp (Solamente si tiene una orden de manutencion para niños)
If you are comfortable, you can email your application to emaildcs@dshs.wa.gov. If you would like us to send you a secure email to use for submitting your forms, please fill out this online form. Note that secure email requires a one-time registration and password set up.
Step 2:
Complete the forms to the best of your ability. If you have any trouble, our video can walk you through the process.
Be sure to sign the forms.
One enrollment form is required for each noncustodial parent.
Step 3:
Mail, email, hand-deliver or fax forms with any supporting documentation to:
By fax: toll-free 866-668-9518
By Mail: Central Services
P.O. Box 11520
Tacoma, WA 98411
Step 4:We will send a letter within seven to 10 days that confirms your case has been opened.
That letter will give you a case number. Please use this number when you communicate with us.
Your application will be assigned to a caseworker who will review the information and determine next steps.
If you have any questions about enrolling for child support services, or about the status of your application, please call 800-442-KIDS (5437).
- How do I pay child support?
I want to pay child support:
Step 1:PRINT these forms.
14-057B (English)
Español: 14-057Bsp
Keep the following for your records:
16-107 Noncustodial Parent's Rights and Responsibilities (English)
Español: 16-107sp
If you are comfortable, you can email your application to emaildcs@dshs.wa.gov. You may also use this email address to send us a request for a secure email to use to submit your forms.
You can also request applications be mailed to you through our online form or by calling 800-442-KIDS (5437), or you can pick up forms at any our nine offices.
Step 2:
Complete the forms to the best of your ability. If you have any trouble, our video can walk you through the process.
Be sure to sign the forms.
Step 3:
Email, mail, hand-deliver or fax forms with any supporting documentation to:
By fax: toll-free 866-668-9518
By Mail: Central Services
P.O. Box 11520
Tacoma, WA 98411
Step 4:
We will send a letter within seven to 10 days to detail next steps.
- How do I get reimbursed for childcare costs?
I also want to receive reimbursement for childcare
Print, complete and sign the following forms. You can bring them to an office. You can also fax or mail the forms to the address above.
18-607 Childcare Verification (English)
- How do I get the Child Support Schedule Worksheets and instructions?
I just want the Child Support Schedule Worksheets and instructions
Child Support Schedule Worksheets (also in Español). Or you can complete and print our automated worksheet.
- How do I get reimbursed for uninsured medical expenses?
If you would like to get reimbursed for medical expenses that are not covered, please reach out to your assigned Support Enforcement Officer (SEO) to discuss. If you do not know who your SEO is, please call 1-800-442-KIDS (5437).
Rules for medical reimbursement are complicated, they vary from case to case, and from court order to court order. Your SEO can help you to determine what you are eligible for.
- What do TANF benefits have to do with child support?
DCS establishes and enforces child support and medical support on a case when a child receives TANF or SFA, unless the department grants good cause not to cooperate. A parent/caregiver whose child receives TANF or SFA doesn’t have the option to request DCS taking only partial action on their case.
- Why might I receive an additional $50 or $100 payment?
Effective Feb. 1, 2021, TANF households are eligible to receive child support pass-through up to $50 each month for households that include one child, and up to $100 for households with two or more children. The amount of pass-through will not be more than what Division of Child Support collects during the month.