The Child Support Enforcement Program is designed to strengthen families and reduce public assistance spending by placing the responsibility for the financial support of children on those parents who have the resources to do so.
For families who receive public assistance, the establishment and enforcement of court ordered support provides a step toward self-sufficiency. If enough child support is received, the family would be able to leave public assistance altogether. Further, by providing child support enforcement services to families not in receipt of public assistance, future dependence is avoided.
Rensselaer County provides services such as locating the absent parent to pursue the support, court referral and collection and disbursement of child support monies, and enforcement of existing child support orders. Anyone receiving public assistance must cooperate with Child Support Enforcement to locate absent parents, establish paternity and support orders.
This service is also available to individuals not on public assistance regardless of their income level.