Georgia Child Support Payments
By Christie Nicholson, J.D. | Legally reviewed by FindLaw Staff | Last reviewed March 13, 2025
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When a couple divorces or separates, they must decide who will have custody of the minor children. Typically, one parent keeps primary physical custody while the other (noncustodial parent) has the children for a specific number of overnights each month.
Whichever party becomes the noncustodial parent (NCP) must pay the other parent monthly child support. Most people wonder how the courts determine the amount of child support the NCP must pay.
Here, we'll tackle this question and explain how NCPs can make child support payments in the state of Georgia. We'll also briefly discuss what happens if an NCP fails to meet their child support obligation.
If you have questions about your child support case, refer to FindLaw's articles. You can also seek legal advice from an experienced child support lawyer.
How To Make Child Support Payments in Georgia
Some couples prefer to handle child support without court intervention. They agree on an amount of child support they believe is fair and determine a payment schedule. The NCP pays the other parent directly, or if they prefer, they can set up their payments through the Division of Child Support Services.
State law requires that the Georgia Family Support Registry collect and process all child support payments, including payments for cases the Georgia Division of Child Support Services (DCSS) is handling. The Registry also oversees cases involving income deduction orders.
While noncustodial parents can make payments via DCSS's website, that does not mean these payments replace court orders requiring income withholding.
Georgia Child Support Payments at a Glance
Although it's best to consult with an attorney for complex cases, it's a good idea for you to get to know Georgia's child support laws. The chart below highlights the Georgia statutes related to child support and offers helpful information on how to pay and collect child support.
| Statutes |
|
|---|---|
| Initial payment | Once the court orders the NCP to pay child support, the NCP must send their first payment to the Georgia Division of Child Support Services (DCSS). If the noncustodial parent works, it may take DCSS up to four to six weeks to post any payments from their place of employment. Once the NCP makes the initial payment, the parent receiving child support will get a Way 2 Go card in the mail. The DCSS applies subsequent payments to the card or directly deposits them into the recipient's bank account. |
| Holding payments in escrow | As mandated by federal and state laws, the Georgia Department of Human Services and DCSS will hold support payments in escrow for 45 days or longer to allow the noncustodial parent time to request a hearing to challenge the amount of their child support payments. If the NCP believes they can no longer afford to pay the court-ordered child support due to a substantial change in circumstances, they can petition the court to modify the child support order. The NCP must prove that there has been a substantial and permanent change in their financial (or other) circumstances to convince the judge to change support. |
Disclaimer: State laws are subject to change through new legislation, higher court rulings, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information, consult a child support attorney or conduct legal research to verify your state laws.
A Skilled Family Law Attorney Can Help
Navigating the process of making or receiving child support payments can be confusing. Consult a skilled Georgia child support attorney if you need help paying or collecting child support payments.
Georgia Child Support Payments: Related Resources
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