General Information about CSE

CSE's responsibilities include locating parents, establishing paternity, establishing child and medical support orders, monitoring and enforcing compliance with child and medical support orders, reviewing and initiating modification of support orders and distributing support collections.

CSE's customers come from several sources. When a custodial parent receives Temporary Assistance or MO HealthNet benefits, Family Support Division staff make a referral to CSE and provide appropriate forms and relevant information. CSE collects child support on behalf of households receiving public assistance not only to eliminate their dependence on assistance programs, but also to reimburse the state for the benefits provided to these families.

In addition, individuals not receiving public assistance benefits may apply for CSE's services. To request an application, they may contact any CSE office or call CSE's toll-free number (1-800-859-7999).

CSE consists of a Central Office located in Jefferson City, two regional offices, and 23 field offices across the state. The field offices are comprised of supervisory, investigative and support staff. In addition, local prosecuting attorneys and circuit court clerks assist the division with its child support responsibilities. The majority of prosecutors in Missouri provide legal support (e.g., the filing of paternity actions, criminal nonsupport and enforcement actions) for cases CSE staff refer to them. Circuit court clerks support CSE staff by filing legal documents and providing copies of documents already on file.

The Family Support Payment Center, located in Jefferson City, receives and disburses support on behalf of families. When a family is receiving public assistance, the Family Support Payment Center forwards collections to the state. When a family is not receiving public assistance, the Family Support Payment Center sends payments directly to the family. CSE collected $586 million in state fiscal year 2007.

To learn more about CSE services, please read and/or print one of our brochures.