Opening a Case With Your State Agency

Opening a case is mostly about walking in complete. The gaps in your file are what stall it.

Who can open one, and what to bring

Custodial parents, legal guardians, and some nonparent caregivers qualify — whether or not they receive public benefits. Gather a photo ID, the child's birth certificate, any existing orders, and everything you can on the other parent (legal name and nicknames, SSN, DOB, addresses, employers), plus income proof and childcare/insurance costs.

What happens next

Apply online, by mail, or in person, completing every field — write "unknown" rather than guessing. The agency then verifies your information, locates the other parent, establishes parentage, calculates support under the guidelines, and serves notice. Set up your SDU portal account early and choose direct deposit.

Set expectations — and stay safe

Locating a parent, paternity testing, and valid service all take time, so keep your contact information current and respond quickly to agency mail. If you fear harassment, ask about address-confidentiality and record-sealing. Don't submit incomplete forms, ignore agency mail, or discuss your case on social media.

If you need a attorney for child support to collect what you're owed, Sinkin Law Firm handles collection and enforcement cases — and on those, you don't pay our fees.