Child Support Enforcement

Child Support Enforcement is all about children. Unfortunately, many people do not understand the intent of child support. Child support is not intended to punish or inconvenience either parent, but to make sure that the children of our state and county receive the financial support necessary from both of their parents. Being a parent brings many responsibilities. Being a parent will also be the hardest and most rewarding job you will ever have. In fact, the benefits, rewards, and memories of being a parent are limitless and will last a lifetime and beyond, by showing your child that you care enough to be there for them, both emotionally and financially, you are showing them your love and respect. You are also teaching them what it means to be a parent - a skill they may one day pass on to their children. 

 Teenage pregnancy is a fact of life in today's society. If you are a teenage father,  your child and New York law sees you not as a teenager but as a Father. Therefore you are responsible to provide for your child. This will mean not only to be there emotionally for your child but also financially. You will be required to pay child support until your child is 21 years old, even if you are a student or do not have a job. These support items include health insurance for your child. Even if the mother of your child gets married to someone else, or gets temporary assistance you will still have to provide child support. 

You do not need to be a Social Services client in order to receive Child Support assistance.

How do I apply for Child Support Enforcement help:

Your local Child Support Enforcement Program will help to:

What if I do not pay my child Support:

You are legally responsible for paying your child support. Your child and New York State expect you to meet these responsibilities. If you do not pay, the amount you owe adds up. The amount that you do not pay is called arrears, and you will be charged interest on the arrears balance. In order to collect arrears and interest, child support can:

If you are a non-custodial parent (parent who does not have custody of a child) and you have been delinquent in child support.

You may be required to see our New York Works councilors at Clinton County Employment and Training Administration (CCETA) . The caring and helpful staff of CCETA interviews prospective clients and places them in a Job Readiness program that requires the client to be present for a total of 21 hours a week, with a 4 to 6 week window for training. Training will include an orientation where clients are informed of the realities of present day job markets, expectations and guidelines that are necessary to gain and retain employment. If the client has reliable childcare and transportation arranged then employment issues are addressed such as:

    If at the time of orientation areas of support needs have been identified that will sustain employment than Support Services  are activated to insure temporary help. These may include: