Introduction: Child Support Clients: TANF and non-TANF

There are two types of child support clients:

Clients who receive TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), or some form of public assistance (such as foster care, medical assistance, or Safety Net assistance.)
Clients who do NOT receive TANF or some form of public assistance

TANF clients, or those who receive public assistance who apply for child support, are required to cooperate with CSE . Failure to cooperate can result in reduced benefits. This cooperation requirement also applies to applicants who care for children for whom there is a non-custodial parent (for example: legal guardians, caretakers, grandparents, etc.)

NOTE: Exceptions may be made if domestic violence is involved. (If domestic violence is a concern, the case is referred to a domestic violence specialist.)