Determine whether you need to file in your state or county child support agency or through family court
Gather required documents, including the child’s birth certificate, proof of parentage, proof of income, custody orders, and identification
Complete the child support application or petition
File the paperwork with the appropriate court or child support office
Pay the filing fee if required or request a fee waiver if eligible
Serve the other parent with the filed documents if required
Attend any scheduled hearings, interviews, or mediation sessions
Provide financial information and any requested evidence
Wait for the court or agency to issue a child support order
Keep copies of all filed documents and the final order
Request enforcement through the court or agency if payments are not made