How Do I Get Child Support in Florida?
Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed April 09, 2018
This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw’s team of legal writers and attorneys and in accordance with our editorial standards.
The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area.
Children are expensive -- whether it's daycare, braces, violin lessons, or just the day-to-day expenses like food and clothing. But when you're a single parent, these costs can really sting, which is why it's so important to ensure that the noncustodial parent contributes their fair share. There are some basic, universal procedures for getting child support, but each works in different ways. So for those wondering how to get child support in Florida, the following information will point you in the right direction.
Getting Child Support in Florida
There are two basic ways to get child support in Florida, which will depend on your particular situation, as it can either be:
- Ordered during a divorce case; or
- Ordered by filing a support petition in family court (typically for unmarried parents).
Payments are made (by the noncustodial parent) and received (by the custodial parent) through the Florida Department of Revenue.
How to Get Child Support in Florida: The Basics
If you're working hard just to put food on the table and cover the rent on a shoestring budget, you probably have neither the time nor inclination to decipher legalese. We believe in making the law accessible to everyone, which is why we've included the helpful, plain-English summary of Florida child support laws and procedures below.
Statute |
Florida Statutes, Civil Practice and Procedure § 61.29, et seq. |
How to File a Child Support Petition |
If you want to keep your address confidential because you are the victim of sexual battery, aggravated child abuse, aggravated stalking, harassment, aggravated battery, or domestic violence, do not enter the address, telephone, and fax information at the bottom of this form. Instead, file a Request for Confidential Filing of Address form. |
Need to Modify a Support Order? |
If you have experienced a substantial change in income or circumstances, you may file a Supplemental Petition for Modification of Child Support with the court. |
Need to Establish Paternity? |
If the father has acknowledged his parentage, then you may proceed with the petition for support (see form below). Otherwise, you will need to establish paternity first by filing a Petition to Determine Paternity and for Related Relief. |
Child Support Forms |
|
Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Research the Law
How to Get Child Support in Florida: Related Resources
- Child Support Enforcement in Florida
- Florida Divorce: What to Expect
- Florida Child Custody: Procedure
Get Professional Legal Help With Your Florida Child Support Claim
If you're seeking child support, you know that time is of the essence and that caring for kids is not cheap. And although the prospect of hiring an attorney may cause financial anxiety, it's often in your best interests to do so. If you need legal help with your child support claim, contact an experienced Florida child support attorney today.
Next Steps: Search for a Local Attorney
Contact a qualified attorney.
Stay up-to-date with how the law affects your life
Learn more about FindLaw’s newsletters, including our terms of use and privacy policy.