Kentucky parents must pay child support through the State Disbursement Unit, with payments processed within 2 business days and disbursed to custodial parents within 3 business days. Under KRS 403.215, automatic wage withholding is mandatory in all Kentucky child support orders since 1988, with employers forwarding payments directly to the Centralized Collection Unit at P.O. Box 14059, Lexington, KY 40512-4059. Parents can also pay online at KentuckyChildSupport.ky.gov using debit cards, credit cards, or electronic checks, with fees of $2 for e-checks and 3% for card payments. Custodial parents receive payments via direct deposit to a bank account or the Kentucky Way2Go prepaid debit card.
Key Facts: Kentucky Child Support Payments 2026
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Payment Method | Wage withholding (mandatory under KRS 403.215) |
| State Disbursement Unit | P.O. Box 14059, Lexington, KY 40512-4059 |
| Online Portal | KentuckyChildSupport.ky.gov |
| Online Payment Fees | $2 (e-check) or 3% (debit/credit card) |
| Payment Processing Time | 2 business days |
| Disbursement to Custodial Parent | 3 business days after processing |
| Maximum Wage Withholding | 50-65% of disposable income |
| Child Support Hotline | (800) 248-1163 |
| Administering Agency | Kentucky Attorney General, Dept. of Child Support Services (as of July 1, 2025) |
How Wage Withholding Works for Kentucky Child Support
Automatic income withholding serves as the primary enforcement mechanism for child support in Kentucky, required in all orders under KRS 403.215 since July 15, 1990. Employers must deduct child support from the obligor's paycheck and forward payment to the State Disbursement Unit within 7 working days. Maximum withholding limits are 50% of disposable income for parents supporting other dependents, 60% for those with no other dependents, and 65% when arrearages exceed 12 weeks.
Kentucky employers receive the federally approved Income Withholding for Support (IWO) form (OMB 0970-0154) to initiate wage garnishment. Employers may deduct $1 per payment as an administrative fee under KRS 405.465. When an obligor terminates employment, the employer must notify the Cabinet of the employee's last known address and new employer name if available. Private attorneys must mail the IWO form and court order by certified mail to employers to begin the withholding process.
Wage withholding exceptions exist primarily for self-employed individuals who cannot have earnings withheld from an employer. Courts may approve alternative payment arrangements for good cause, but the wage assignment automatically activates if arrearages equal one month of support payments. Self-employed obligors should establish regular payment schedules through the online portal or direct mail to avoid enforcement actions.
How to Pay Child Support Online in Kentucky
The Kentucky Child Support Interactive (KCSI) website at KentuckyChildSupport.ky.gov provides 24/7 access for making child support payments in Kentucky. Parents can pay using checking accounts, savings accounts, debit cards, or credit cards (Visa and Mastercard only). Online payment processing fees are $2 for electronic check payments and 3% for debit or credit card transactions. The mobile-friendly website allows parents to make payments, view balances, and access payment history from any device.
To make an online payment, parents must first register for an account on the KCSI website using their Social Security number or case number. Payment confirmation appears immediately, though funds may take 5-10 business days to reach the custodial parent after online submission. The online portal also allows parents to view complete payment history, check current balances, upload court documents, report address changes, and request case updates.
Online payments offer flexibility for self-employed obligors, those with irregular income, or parents making additional payments beyond wage withholding amounts. The 24-hour voice response system at (800) 443-1576 provides automated access to account information for parents who prefer phone-based services. Regular online payments demonstrate good faith compliance and create an electronic record that can prove payment history in court proceedings.
How to Pay Kentucky Child Support by Mail
Mailing child support payments to the Kentucky State Disbursement Unit remains an option for parents without bank accounts or those preferring paper transactions. All payments must be made payable to Kentucky Child Support Enforcement and mailed to: Division of Child Support, P.O. Box 14059, Lexington, Kentucky 40512-4059. Every payment must clearly include the noncustodial parent's name and either their Social Security number or IV-D case number to ensure proper crediting.
Mailed payments take longer to process than electronic methods, with checks requiring clearing time before funds can be disbursed. Personal checks, cashier's checks, and money orders are accepted, but cash should never be mailed due to theft risk and lack of payment verification. Keep copies of all checks and money orders, and consider using certified mail with return receipt to create proof of timely payment.
Parents who mail payments should account for postal delivery time when making payments near due dates. A payment postmarked before the due date but received after may still result in late payment reporting. Building a 5-7 day buffer between mailing and the payment due date helps avoid accidental arrearages that could trigger enforcement actions including license suspension or contempt proceedings.
How to Receive Child Support Payments in Kentucky
Custodial parents in Kentucky receive child support payments through electronic deposit to a checking or savings account or through the Kentucky Way2Go prepaid debit card. Direct deposit enrollment requires completing an Authorization for Electronic Deposit form (CS-202) available through the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services website or the KCSI online portal. Payments are disbursed within 2 business days of receipt and typically arrive in accounts within 3 additional business days.
The Kentucky Way2Go Card functions as a prepaid debit card that receives automatic deposits of child support payments. Enrollment is available through the KCSI website at KentuckyChildSupport.ky.gov. After selecting the Way2Go Card option, the Division of Child Support Services disburses payments within 5 working days, and the physical card arrives by mail within 10 working days. Funds typically become available 2-3 business days after disbursement.
Way2Go Card benefits include 24/7 online access at www.goprogram.com for balance checks, transaction history, and monthly statements. Customer service is available at (844) 575-0168. The card eliminates risks of lost, damaged, or stolen checks and provides faster access to funds than paper checks. However, an inactivity fee applies after 12 consecutive months without transactions, including deposits, purchases, withdrawals, or balance inquiries.
Kentucky Child Support Payment Processing Timeline
Understanding the payment processing timeline helps both paying and receiving parents plan their finances accurately. The State Disbursement Unit processes all child support payments within 2 business days of receipt. After processing, disbursement to the custodial parent occurs immediately, with funds arriving in bank accounts or Way2Go Cards within 3 additional business days. Total time from employer wage deduction to custodial parent receipt is typically 5-7 business days.
| Payment Method | Processing Time | Total Time to Custodial Parent |
|---|---|---|
| Wage Withholding | Employer forwards within 7 days | 5-10 business days |
| Online Payment (e-check) | 2 business days | 5-7 business days |
| Online Payment (card) | 2 business days | 5-10 business days |
| Mailed Check | 2-5 business days after receipt | 7-10 business days |
| Direct Deposit Receipt | Same day as disbursement | 3 business days after disbursement |
| Way2Go Card Receipt | Same day as disbursement | 2-3 business days after disbursement |
Payments for parents receiving Kentucky Transitional Assistance Program (KTAP) benefits follow different rules. The State Disbursement Unit sends child support payments to IV-D Services, which then pays the KTAP recipient either $50 per month or the full child support amount, whichever is less. The remainder offsets public assistance costs. This pass-through amount changed under federal law and parents should verify current rules with their caseworker.
Kentucky Child Support Enforcement Penalties for Non-Payment
Failure to pay court-ordered child support in Kentucky triggers severe enforcement actions through the Kentucky Attorney General's Department of Child Support Services. Enforcement methods include wage garnishment, driver's license suspension, professional license revocation, passport denial, property liens, vehicle immobilization (booting), tax refund interception, and publication of delinquent parents' names with amounts owed. Criminal charges may apply under KRS 530.050 for arrearages exceeding $5,000 or non-payment lasting more than 12 months.
Contempt of court remains the most common enforcement action for willful non-payment. Parents found in contempt may face fines ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars, incarceration for up to 12 months per violation, and additional penalties for repeated failures. Courts distinguish between willful non-payment and inability to pay due to job loss, disability, or other circumstances beyond the obligor's control. Demonstrating good faith efforts to pay, even partial amounts, can mitigate contempt findings.
Kentucky law allows indefinite pursuit of child support arrears with no statute of limitations on collection. While the state does not charge interest on missed payments automatically, courts may order 12% annual interest on arrearages reduced to judgment. A 2026 high-profile case involving former Governor Matt Bevin demonstrated judicial willingness to impose jail time for contempt, with Bevin sentenced to 60 days for failing to produce financial records in a child support matter.
How to Modify Child Support Payments in Kentucky
Kentucky allows child support modification when a substantial change in circumstances occurs under KRS 403.213. Effective July 1, 2025, the modification threshold decreased from 15% to 10% of the calculated support amount under amended KRS 403.212. Either parent may file a motion with the circuit court or request a free administrative review through the Child Support Enforcement office every 3 years. Filing fees range from $115 to $250 depending on the county as of April 2026.
Significant life changes warranting modification include job loss, substantial income increase or decrease, changes in custody or parenting time, additional children, and medical expenses. The 2025 amendments also doubled the combined monthly income cap from $15,000 to $30,000, potentially increasing support amounts for higher-earning families. Parenting time adjustments now follow a detailed schedule ranging from 10.5% reduction for 73-87 days to 50% reduction for equal (182-day) custody arrangements.
To request modification, file a Motion to Modify Child Support with the Circuit Court in the county where the original order was entered. Include documentation supporting the change in circumstances: pay stubs, tax returns, medical records, or custody modifications. Processing typically takes 60 to 120 days. Low-income parents may qualify for fee waivers through Form AOC-205 if income falls below 200% of federal poverty guidelines ($30,120 for individuals, $40,880 for couples in 2026).
Kentucky Child Support Contact Information and Resources
The Kentucky Department of Child Support Services operates under the Office of the Attorney General following the July 1, 2025 transition from the Cabinet for Health and Family Services. Multiple contact methods exist for parents needing assistance with payments, case information, or enforcement issues. The main child support hotline at (800) 248-1163 is available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time. The 24-hour voice response system at (800) 443-1576 provides automated payment and account information.
| Contact Purpose | Phone Number | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Child Support Hotline | (800) 248-1163 | M-F 8am-4:30pm ET |
| Voice Response System | (800) 443-1576 | 24/7 |
| Custody & Visitation Hotline | (844) 673-3470 | M-F 9am-noon, 1-5pm |
| Paternity Acknowledgement | (502) 564-2285 | Business hours |
| New Hire Reporting | (800) 817-2262 | Business hours |
| Way2Go Card Customer Service | (844) 575-0168 | 24/7 |
Mail correspondence and payment inquiries should be directed to: Department of Child Support Services, P.O. Box 2150, Frankfort, KY 40602 for non-IV-D cases, or the Centralized Collection Unit, P.O. Box 14059, Lexington, KY 40512-4059 for payment-related matters. The Kentucky Child Support Interactive website remains the most efficient method for case management, payments, and document submission.
Terminating Child Support Payments in Kentucky
Child support obligations in Kentucky typically end when the child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever occurs later, up to age 19 under KRS 403.213. However, wage withholding does not stop automatically when the child ages out. Parents must file a motion to terminate child support with the Circuit Court in the county where the original order was entered. Filing fees range from $115 to $250 depending on the county as of April 2026.
The motion to terminate requires proof that the child has reached 18 and is no longer enrolled in high school. Supporting documentation includes birth certificates, high school graduation certificates, or school enrollment records. Courts may deny termination if the child has disabilities requiring ongoing support or if the original order specified support beyond the standard termination age. Arrearages accumulated before termination remain collectible indefinitely.
Parents should file termination motions proactively rather than waiting for automatic processes. Continuing wage withholding after the support obligation ends can result in overpayments that require separate court action to recover. The Kentucky Child Support Services office can provide guidance on the termination process, though legal representation is advisable for cases involving arrearages or disputed termination dates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I pay child support in Kentucky?
Kentucky parents can pay child support through automatic wage withholding (mandatory under KRS 403.215), online at KentuckyChildSupport.ky.gov, by mail to P.O. Box 14059, Lexington, KY 40512-4059, or by phone with a debit or credit card. Wage withholding is the default method required in all Kentucky child support orders since 1988, with employers forwarding payments to the State Disbursement Unit within 7 working days.
What is the Kentucky State Disbursement Unit?
The Kentucky State Disbursement Unit processes all child support payments in the Commonwealth, located at Centralized Collection Unit, P.O. Box 14059, Lexington, KY 40512-4059. The SDU receives payments from employers and individuals within 2 business days of receipt and disburses funds to custodial parents within 3 additional business days. The unit handles over 200,000 active child support cases statewide.
How much can be withheld from my paycheck for child support in Kentucky?
Kentucky follows federal limits on child support wage withholding: 50% of disposable income for parents supporting other dependents, 60% for those with no other dependents, and 65% if arrearages exceed 12 weeks under 15 U.S.C. 1673(b). Employers may deduct an additional $1 per payment as an administrative fee. The total withholding includes current support plus any amounts applied to arrearages.
What are the fees for paying child support online in Kentucky?
Online child support payments through KentuckyChildSupport.ky.gov incur fees of $2 for electronic check payments and 3% for debit or credit card transactions. For a $500 monthly payment, card fees would be $15 compared to $2 for e-check. The online portal accepts Visa and Mastercard only. These fees are paid by the obligor and do not reduce the support amount credited to the custodial parent.
How do I receive child support payments in Kentucky?
Custodial parents in Kentucky receive payments through direct deposit to a checking or savings account or via the Kentucky Way2Go prepaid debit card. Enrollment requires completing Form CS-202 or selecting options through the KCSI website. Direct deposit funds arrive within 3 business days of disbursement. The Way2Go Card provides 24/7 account access at www.goprogram.com with customer service at (844) 575-0168.
What happens if I don't pay child support in Kentucky?
Non-payment of child support in Kentucky triggers enforcement actions including wage garnishment, driver's license suspension, passport denial, vehicle immobilization, property liens, and contempt of court proceedings. Criminal charges under KRS 530.050 apply for arrearages exceeding $5,000 or non-payment over 12 months. Contempt findings can result in fines, incarceration up to 12 months, and 12% annual interest on arrearages reduced to judgment.
How do I change my child support payment amount in Kentucky?
To modify child support in Kentucky, file a motion with the Circuit Court showing a substantial change in circumstances under KRS 403.213, with a minimum 10% change in calculated support required since July 2025. Filing fees range from $115-$250 by county. Alternatively, request a free administrative review through Child Support Services every 3 years. Modification processing typically takes 60-120 days with proper documentation of income changes, custody modifications, or other qualifying circumstances.
Can I pay child support directly to the other parent in Kentucky?
Direct payments between parents are generally discouraged because they create no official record and may not be credited toward the child support obligation. All Kentucky child support orders require payment through the State Disbursement Unit to ensure accurate tracking. Payments made directly to the other parent without court approval may need to be repaid if challenged. Courts occasionally allow direct payment arrangements with proper documentation and approval.
How long does it take for child support payments to be processed in Kentucky?
The Kentucky State Disbursement Unit processes payments within 2 business days of receipt. Disbursement to custodial parents occurs within 3 additional business days for direct deposit or Way2Go Card recipients. Total time from wage deduction to receipt ranges from 5-10 business days. Mailed payments require additional clearing time. Online payments take 5-10 business days total due to processing and transfer delays.
Where do I send my child support payment in Kentucky?
Mail child support payments to: Kentucky Child Support Enforcement, Centralized Collection Unit, P.O. Box 14059, Lexington, KY 40512-4059. Include your name and Social Security number or IV-D case number on the check or money order. Make payments payable to Kentucky Child Support Enforcement. Online payments can be made at KentuckyChildSupport.ky.gov. Never mail cash.