How to Apply for Child Support

Step 1: Gather and complete required documents

In order to apply for child support services, you will need:

• A picture ID
• Your children’s birth certificates (if children born outside Ohio)
• Social security cards and/or birth letter from hospital
• A completed JFS 1618 – Parent Information Request Form (form needed to establish paternity)
• A completed JFS 07076 – Application for Child Support Services Non-Public Assistance Applicant/Recipient 

You may also need:

• Custody and guardianship papers
• Your marriage certificate and/or divorce decree

Step 2: Send or Bring the Documents to HCJFS

There are variety of ways to return the documents to Hamilton County Job and Family Services, you may:

Mail Documents

HCJFS Child Support Services
222 East Central Parkway, 2nd Floor
Cincinnati, OH 45202

Fax Documents

Documents can be faxed to (513) 946-2395.

Email Documents

Documents can be emailed to: childsupportintake@jfs.hamilton-co.org.

Deliver In-Person

Hamilton County Job and Family Services
Child Support 
222 East Central Parkway, 2nd Floor
Cincinnati, OH 45202

You can apply in person between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Step 3: Genetic testing or Support Hearing

Once all documents have been received, a child support caseworker will be assigned to your case. That worker may ask you for additional documentation and will attempt to verify the location of the other parent. After those steps are complete, you will be notified by mail of either an appointment for genetic testing or, if paternity is known, a support hearing will be scheduled.