State and federal law require DCS to issue a wage or income withholding notice when an employee’s child support order contains withholding language.
DCS sends a withholding notice even if the employee (or independent contractor) is not behind in child support payments.
- Notices are effective the day they are received.
- State and federal laws do not require DCS to give the employee advance notice.
- DCS sends withholding notices by regular mail, certified mail or personal service. You can also receive withholding notices electronically.
- You must return the “Answer” form within 20 days after receiving the notice.
Withholding from wages and tips:
- Withhold the amount asked for on the form and send it to DCS within seven working days of each payday.
- State law does not allow withholding of more than 50% of the employee’s net income (disposable earnings).
- Disposable earnings are the wages left after taking out taxes and mandatory fees.
- Tax deductions include FICA, income taxes, Labor and Industries (unemployment insurance).
- Fees include union dues and some retirement deductions.
- Wages of an independent contractor or employee include bonuses, commissions and draws against earnings.
- Tips and gratuities under an employer’s control are subject to collection action.
- Convert housing, rent and other benefits paid instead of wages to dollar amounts and count them as part of net wages.
Other states’ Withholding Orders:
- The federal income withholding order can come from Washington or any other state.
- Follow Washington state law and do not exceed the 50% of net withholding limit.
- If you receive orders from more than one state telling you to withhold from the parent’s earnings, call us immediately at 800-562-0479.
Failure to Withhold:
- DCS holds employers responsible for payment of all child support money required to be taken from wages.
- Your failure to honor a notice or deduct and send wages to DCS can result in a finding of liability for the full child support debt and a fine.
Free resources for employers
- Report Your New Hires Within 20 Days
- The Employer's Guide to Child Support (Spanish)
- Basics of Child Support for Employers Workbook
- Electronic Income Withholding Order Overview
Contact us
DCS's Employer Relations Team is here to help you with all your child support questions.
- 800-562-0479
- dcs-ert@dshs.wa.gov