Write a commentThe Oswego County Department of Social Services (DSS) recognizes August as Child Support Awareness Month as the agency marks the 50th anniversary of its child support program.
DSS is committed to ensuring that families receive this vital assistance, which can make the difference between poverty and self-sufficiency for households where one parent is absent.
Under New York State law, parents are financially responsible for their children until they are aged 21, regardless of whether they live with them. Parents and guardians applying for or receiving cash assistance are automatically referred to DSS’ Child Support Unit (CSU) for assistance in collecting child support from the absent parent. Parents and guardians who do not receive cash assistance may also apply for help with this service. There are no income or eligibility requirements to enroll.
CSU provides a range of other services such as locating absent parents, establishing paternity, obtaining child and medical support orders, collecting payments through automatic income deductions and assisting with Family Court petitions for modifications or enforcement of support.
When child support payments fall behind, CSU uses enforcement tools such as license suspension, tax refund interception and asset seizure to help recover overdue payments. These measures are not meant as punishment to parents but help meet the needs of their children.
Created in 1975 as part of the federal Social Security Act, the child support program was originally designed to help recoup costs for children receiving cash assistance. Then it was known as Aid to Families with Dependent Children and now it is referred to as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. Over time, it has evolved into a program serving all families with absent parents, helping to ensure that children receive the financial and medical support they need to grow and thrive.
In 2024, the Oswego County Child Support unit managed 5,929 cases; served 6,107 children; and collected $14,847,208 in support for local families.
For more information, visit www.childsupport.ny.gov, email childsupport@oswegocounty.com, or call the Oswego County Child Support Customer Service Helpline at 1-888-208-4485, weekdays from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
