California requires all child support payments to be processed through the State Disbursement Unit (SDU), a centralized system established September 1, 2006, under federal mandate. Parents paying support can use wage withholding (up to 50% of net disposable earnings), the TouchPay mobile app (2.7% fee), MoneyGram ($1.99 fee), PayPal (2.49% fee, $3.95 minimum), or direct bank transfers. Unpaid support accrues 10% annual interest under Code of Civil Procedure § 685.010, the second-highest rate in the nation. This guide explains every payment method available, enforcement consequences for non-payment, and how receiving parents can access funds faster through direct deposit or the Electronic Payment Card.
Key Facts: California Child Support Payments
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Central Processing | State Disbursement Unit (SDU) |
| SDU Phone | (866) 901-3212, Mon-Fri 6am-6pm PT |
| Wage Withholding Limit | 50% of net disposable earnings (Fam. Code § 5230) |
| Interest on Arrears | 10% per year (Code Civ. Proc. § 685.010) |
| Late Payment Penalty | 6%-72% if 30+ days delinquent (Fam. Code § 4722) |
| Mobile App Fee | 2.7% (TouchPay) |
| MoneyGram Fee | $1.99 per transaction |
| PayPal Fee | 2.49% ($3.95 minimum) |
| License Suspension | 180 days after falling behind |
| Passport Denial | At $2,500+ in arrears |
Understanding How to Pay Child Support in California Through the State Disbursement Unit
The California State Disbursement Unit processes 100% of child support payments statewide under federal law. Parents cannot send payments directly to the other parent and have those payments count toward their court-ordered obligation. The SDU, operated by the California Department of Child Support Services (DCSS), provides a centralized collection and distribution system serving all 47 Local Child Support Agencies (LCSAs) across California. Payments made through the SDU create an official record that protects both parents in disputes over whether support was paid.
The SDU accepts payments by multiple methods including automatic wage withholding, online portal transactions, mobile app payments, money orders, personal checks, and cash through retail locations. Each method has different processing times and fee structures. Wage withholding remains the default method because California Family Code § 5230 requires Earnings Assignment Orders in most child support cases. The SDU can be reached at (866) 901-3212, Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Pacific Time, for assistance with any payment questions.
Wage Withholding: The Default Child Support Payment Method in California
Wage withholding through an Earnings Assignment Order is the primary method for how to pay child support in California, collecting payments automatically from each paycheck. Under California Family Code § 5230, wage withholding takes precedence over all other garnishments, and employers must begin withholding within 10 days of receiving the order. California law permits garnishment of up to 50% of net disposable earnings for child support, though federal law sets an absolute maximum of 65% in extreme cases involving arrears.
Employers face strict legal obligations regarding child support withholding. California Family Code § 5260 requires employers to cooperate with child support agencies and provide relevant employment information. Employers cannot terminate, refuse to hire, or discipline an employee because of a child support withholding order. The Family Support Act of 1988 mandates that wage withholding begin when the support order is issued, not when arrears accumulate.
Electronic Income Withholding Orders (E-IWOs) have become the standard since 2024, streamlining the process for employers. California employers must submit payments electronically to the SDU under California Family Code § 17309.5. Employers who pay state taxes via Electronic Fund Transfer must also remit child support payments via EFT. The SDU offers three electronic payment options for employers: EFT/ACH Credit, ExpertPay, and phone payments at 1-866-901-3212.
To terminate wage withholding after the support obligation ends, the paying parent must file a Request for Order (Form FL-300) with the court. Without this formal step, employers may continue deducting child support from paychecks indefinitely even after the legal obligation terminates.
Online and Mobile Payment Options for California Child Support
The California child support payment portal and mobile apps provide convenient alternatives for parents who do not have wage withholding in place. Starting February 1, 2026, the TouchPay Child Support mobile app allows payments via debit or credit card with a 2.7% service fee. The app is available free on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Parents need their 13-digit or 15-digit Participant ID number to make payments.
ExpertPay, the Child Support Payment Center, accepts Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, Venmo, or traditional bank account and credit card payments. PayPal transactions carry a 2.49% service fee with a $3.95 minimum per transaction. Parents can link their PayPal balance, PayPal-branded cards, bank account debit cards, or credit cards to their ExpertPay account for ongoing payments.
The California State Disbursement Unit website (CASDU.com) allows payments by automatic withdrawal, credit card, or electronic check. Phone payments can be made by calling (866) 901-3212 using a debit or credit card. All online and mobile payments post within one to three business days, faster than mailed checks which can take five to seven business days to process.
Customer Connect, California Child Support's self-service platform at cse.ca.gov/CustomerConnect, provides 24/7 access to case information, payment history, and direct communication with caseworkers. To register, parents need their Participant ID (found on support checks or billing statements) and must create a Personal Identification Number (PIN).
Cash Payment Options for California Child Support
MoneyGram provides cash payment options at over 6,200 locations throughout California. Parents can pay with cash or debit card at MoneyGram locations or by calling 1-800-926-9400. Each transaction requires the parent's Participant ID number and Receive Code 14630. MoneyGram charges a $1.99 per transaction fee. Payments made through MoneyGram may take up to three business days to post to the SDU.
Retail cash payments are accepted at over 8,500 locations nationwide including 7-Eleven, Family Dollar, and ACE Cash Express stores. These locations provide convenient options for parents who prefer cash transactions or lack bank accounts. The retail payment network ensures access to payment options even in rural areas with limited banking services.
Local child support agency offices accept in-person payments by check, money order, or credit card at their cashier windows. Many offices also have payment kiosks for self-service transactions. Parents should contact their local LCSA for office hours and accepted payment methods, as services may vary by county.
Receiving Child Support Payments in California
California child support direct deposit transfers payments directly to a checking or savings account, providing the fastest access to funds. Parents can enroll online at CASDU.com, by phone at (866) 901-3212, or by mail using the Direct Deposit Authorization Form sent to CA SDU, P.O. Box 989064, West Sacramento, CA 95798-9064. International direct deposit to non-US bank accounts is also available using a separate enrollment form.
Paper checks are no longer a default option in California. Parents have 21 days after notification to enroll in direct deposit, or they will automatically receive an Electronic Payment Card (EPC). The EPC functions like a Mastercard debit card with 24/7 access to funds at any location accepting Mastercard. The card can be used for purchases or ATM withdrawals.
Payments distributed through direct deposit typically arrive two to three business days faster than paper checks. Direct deposit eliminates risks associated with lost or stolen checks and provides immediate access to funds once processed. Parents who move frequently benefit from direct deposit because funds go to the same account regardless of mailing address changes.
Consequences of Failing to Pay Child Support in California
Unpaid child support accrues interest at 10% annually under Code of Civil Procedure § 685.010, the second-highest rate in the nation according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. This simple interest compounds the debt quickly. A parent owing $20,000 in arrears accumulates $2,000 in additional interest every year. California courts cannot waive or forgive this interest, even if both parents agree, as confirmed in the February 2026 appellate decision In re Marriage of Allen.
Late payment penalties under California Family Code § 4722 range from 6% to 72% for payments more than 30 days overdue. Courts reserve the higher penalties for willful nonpayment. Each missed payment constitutes one count of contempt, carrying up to $1,000 in fines and 5 days in jail per count. Parents can face multiple contempt charges for multiple missed payments.
Enforcement actions escalate with continued non-payment. California suspends driver's licenses 180 days after a parent falls behind. At $2,500 in arrears, the U.S. State Department denies or revokes passports. Additional enforcement tools include bank account seizures, property liens, tax refund interception, and professional license suspensions. Wage garnishment can reach 50% of net disposable earnings.
Child support arrears never expire in California. Unlike other debts, there is no statute of limitations on child support, and arrears cannot be discharged through bankruptcy. The obligation remains attached to the paying parent until fully satisfied, even after the child reaches adulthood.
Modifying Child Support Orders in California
Parents experiencing financial hardship may request a child support modification through the court rather than simply stopping payments. California courts consider changes in income, employment status, custody arrangements, or the number of children when evaluating modification requests. Under SB 343 (effective September 1, 2024), the child support formula was updated to reflect modern income levels and living costs.
The low-income adjustment under current California guidelines applies when the paying parent's net monthly income falls below approximately $2,929 per month (based on a 40-hour minimum-wage workweek in 2026). This adjustment prevents support orders from leaving the paying parent below poverty level. Courts must consider the specific circumstances of each parent when determining earning capacity under California Family Code § 4058.
The Compromise of Arrears Program (COAP) helps parents reduce government-owed portions of child support debt. This program applies when arrears include amounts owed because the family received public assistance or the children were in foster care. COAP eligibility depends on the parent's current income and assets. Private arrears owed directly to the other parent cannot be compromised through this program.
Understanding Income for Child Support Calculations in California
California Family Code § 4058 defines gross income broadly to include salary, wages, commissions, bonuses, royalties, rents, dividends, pensions, interest, trust income, annuities, workers' compensation, unemployment benefits, disability benefits, social security benefits, severance pay, veterans benefits (except need-based), and military housing and food allowances. Under SB 343, capital gains were explicitly added to the income definition effective September 2024.
Stock options granted as job compensation count as income when they vest, whether the parent sells them or not, per the 2018 Marriage of Macilwaine decision. Self-employment income equals gross business receipts minus necessary operating expenses. Courts may impute earning capacity when a parent is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed, considering their education, work history, and available job opportunities.
Certain income sources are excluded from child support calculations. Child support received for other children is not counted as income. Public assistance benefits based on need determinations are excluded. Spousal support received from the other parent in the same case is handled separately from income calculations.
Employer Responsibilities for Child Support Wage Withholding
California employers must remit all child support income withholding payments to the State Disbursement Unit electronically under California Family Code § 17309.5. Employers cannot send payments directly to custodial parents, even if previously arranged. All payments must flow through the SDU for proper documentation and distribution. Employers who pay taxes via EFT to the Franchise Tax Board or Employment Development Department must also use EFT for child support.
The SDU accepts employer payments via three methods: EFT/ACH Credit through the employer's financial institution, ExpertPay electronic debit or credit card payments, or phone payments at 1-866-901-3212. Bulk-file upload capabilities exist for employers with multiple employees subject to Income Withholding Orders. Out-of-state employers may pay by check mailed to CA SDU, P.O. Box 989067, West Sacramento, CA 95798.
Employers must begin withholding within 10 days of receiving an Earnings Assignment Order. Employers submit one combined check for all employees, even when multiple workers have separate child support obligations. The SDU then distributes payments to the appropriate recipients. Failure to comply with withholding orders can result in employer liability for the unpaid support amounts.
Tracking Child Support Payments and Account Status
Customer Connect at cse.ca.gov/CustomerConnect provides 24/7 online access to child support case information. Both paying and receiving parents can view payment history, current balances, and case status. The portal allows direct messaging with caseworkers and provides notification of case updates. Registration requires the parent's Participant ID and creation of a secure PIN.
The California Child Support Services Arrears Calculator at childsupport.ca.gov helps parents estimate their current arrears balance including accrued interest. This tool provides approximate figures based on payment history and interest calculations. Parents should verify exact balances through Customer Connect or by contacting their local child support agency.
Payment receipts and records should be maintained for all child support transactions. The SDU maintains official records of all processed payments, but parents benefit from keeping personal records including pay stubs showing wage withholding, bank statements showing direct payments, and receipts from cash payment locations. These records provide backup documentation in case of disputes.
H2 Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to pay child support in California?
Wage withholding provides the fastest and most reliable child support payment method in California. Payments are automatically deducted from each paycheck and sent directly to the State Disbursement Unit. For parents without wage withholding, the TouchPay mobile app and ExpertPay online portal process payments within one to three business days, compared to five to seven days for mailed checks.
Can I pay child support directly to the other parent in California?
No, California requires all child support payments to go through the State Disbursement Unit for official documentation. Direct payments to the other parent do not count toward your court-ordered obligation. Only payments processed through the SDU create official records that protect you in disputes. If you make direct payments, keep receipts and consider filing a motion to credit those amounts.
What happens if I miss a child support payment in California?
Missed child support payments accrue 10% annual interest under California law. Payments more than 30 days late face penalties of 6% to 72% under Family Code § 4722. Your driver's license can be suspended 180 days after falling behind. At $2,500 in arrears, your passport will be denied. Each missed payment can result in contempt charges carrying $1,000 fines and 5 days jail.
How much can California take from my paycheck for child support?
California can withhold up to 50% of your net disposable earnings for child support under an Earnings Assignment Order. This limit applies to current support and arrears combined. Federal law sets an absolute maximum of 65% in extreme cases. Child support garnishment takes priority over all other wage garnishments, meaning it is paid before other creditors.
How do I set up direct deposit to receive child support payments?
Enroll in direct deposit online at CASDU.com, by calling the SDU at (866) 901-3212, or by mailing a completed Direct Deposit Authorization Form to CA SDU, P.O. Box 989064, West Sacramento, CA 95798-9064. You need your social security number and Participant ID number. Direct deposit provides faster access to funds than paper checks or the Electronic Payment Card.
What fees are charged for California child support payments?
Payment fees vary by method: TouchPay mobile app charges 2.7% per transaction, PayPal charges 2.49% with a $3.95 minimum, and MoneyGram charges $1.99 flat per transaction. Wage withholding and direct bank transfers have no fees for parents. Credit card payments through ExpertPay may include processing fees. Receiving parents pay no fees for direct deposit or the Electronic Payment Card.
Can child support arrears be forgiven in California?
Private arrears owed to the other parent cannot be waived or forgiven, even by mutual agreement, as confirmed in the 2026 Marriage of Allen decision. Government-owed arrears (from public assistance or foster care) may qualify for the Compromise of Arrears Program (COAP) based on income and assets. Interest on arrears also cannot be waived by the court.
How do I know if my child support payment was received?
Customer Connect at cse.ca.gov/CustomerConnect shows your complete payment history and current account status 24/7. You can also call the State Disbursement Unit at (866) 901-3212 to verify payment posting. Payments made via wage withholding appear on your pay stub. Mobile app and online payments provide confirmation numbers. MoneyGram and retail payments may take three business days to post.
What is my California Child Support Participant ID number?
Your Participant ID is a 13-digit or 15-digit number assigned by California Child Support Services to identify your case. It appears on child support checks, billing statements, and Customer Connect correspondence. If you cannot locate your Participant ID, call the SDU at (866) 901-3212 with your social security number to obtain it. You need this number for all payment methods and account access.
Can I modify my child support amount if I lose my job?
Yes, job loss constitutes a change in circumstances that may justify a support modification. File a Request for Order (Form FL-300) with the court to formally request a modification. California considers changes in income when evaluating modification requests. Do not simply stop paying, as arrears continue accruing with 10% interest. The low-income adjustment may apply if your net monthly income falls below $2,929.