The Idaho Child Support program is celebrating a major milestone: 50 years of service to families across the state. 

Launched in 1975 as part of the federally funded Child Support Enforcement program, today’s Child Support Services (CSS) program plays a vital role in helping families thrive. Through a federal-state partnership, the program works to ensure that noncustodial parents contribute to the financial support of their children. This not only strengthens families, but also helps reduce the need for public assistance.

Since October 2024, Idaho’s Child Support program has collected more than $102 million in monthly support payments, helping more than 80,000 families. Many of these payments are made reliably each month by parents who are committed to supporting their children. 

When needed, collections may also result from enforcement actions, including income withholding from wages or unemployment benefits, intercepting tax refunds, suspending licenses, reporting to credit agencies, and placing liens.

Idaho’s Child Support program is also receiving national recognition. Among all states, Idaho ranks fourth overall in federal incentive performance. These rankings are based on key outcomes including:

• Establishing support orders
• Establishing paternity
• Collecting current monthly support
• Collecting overdue payments (arrears)
• Cost effectiveness of services provided

Out of the five performance categories, Idaho ranks second nationally for cost effectiveness, collecting $9.46 in support payments for every $1 spent on the program.

These achievements reflect the dedication of Idaho’s Child Support Services team, whose efforts make a meaningful difference for families and children across the state.

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is dedicated to strengthening the health, safety, and independence of Idahoans. Learn more at healthandwelfare.idaho.gov.