Once legal paternity has been established, if a person does not already receive child support, the child's legal custodian can contact the OCSS for assistance in obtaining an order for the payment of child support and health care for the child(ren).
Same day child support Administrative Hearings can also be heard at the main OCSS office if both the mother and father appear together on the same day before 3 pm.
To determine the amount of support a parent is required to pay, the OCSS or the court, (if applicable based on a referral from the OCSS), will use the "Ohio Child Support Guidelines" as a guide. Both parents must provide verification of their income for the past six months or provide their most recent income tax returns.
How to Apply for Paternity and/or Support
Follow the steps below to apply for the service:
- Walk in to main office or Neighborhood Family Service Center.
- Bring your photo identification, social security cards, and birth certificates for the child(ren).
- Bring any information regarding the other party.
- Bring custody or guardianship papers, marriage certificate, and/or divorce decree (if applicable).
- If you are under the age of 18 your parent or legal guardian must accompany you.
If You Received an Appointment Letter:
Certain public assistance programs that you may apply for, or may be receiving, require your cooperation with OCSS. To help coordinate this, OCSS will schedule appointments on your behalf when cooperation is necessary.
If you are unable to keep your scheduled appointment:
Please call our OCSS Contact Center at (216) 443-5100, prior to the appointment date, to reschedule your appointment. If you fail to appear, your cash assistance case may be sanctioned, which may result in a delay of your cash benefits.
Change of Address or Employment:
Please call the OCSS Contact Center at (216) 443-5100 to provide any new information on either the other party or yourself. Please have your case number or social security number available.
If You Received a Case Closure Letter:
If you have received a Case Closure Letter and have current information on the other party, please contact the Support Officer named on the letter. Please have your case number or social security number ready.