Apply for guardianship through the Department of Children and Family Services
Assistance to the Youth Welfare Office in establishing paternity and asserting child support claims.
How to proceed
- 1
Submit an application to the Department of Children and Family Services
In writing, informally, or using the application form.
- 2
The Youth Welfare Office will serve as a legal guardian
For matters related to paternity determination and/or child support.
- 3
Claiming Child Support
The Child Welfare Office collects child support from the other parent.
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 3 weeks
Official: max. approx. 1 months
Online application
Online possible – at the responsible authority
Common mistakes
- • The person obligated to pay child support has not kept their proof of income up to date
- • Failure to report changes of address for the other parent
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Single parents who need assistance in enforcing child support claims for their minor child.
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. approx. 3 weeks
Success rate
approx. 95.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •The person obligated to pay child support has not kept their proof of income up to date
- •Failure to report changes of address for the other parent
Common reasons for rejection
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
Read the decision carefully: often submitting missing documents or reapplying helps more than an objection.