In the fall of 2024, the Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS) mailed letters to parents who once had an open dependency and/or severance case.
Did you receive a letter? Visit the DCS letter page for more information.
What guidelines do judges use when establishing the amount of the support?
The Arizona Supreme Court Child Support Guidelines are used to determine child support in Arizona. The guidelines take into consideration the needs of the child and the ability of the parents to pay. Courts in Arizona must use these guidelines unless they can be shown to be unfair to the child(ren). The court or DCSS office may consider the parents’ earning potential and any other natural dependents the obligated parent may have. Anyone requesting copies of, or information about, the Arizona Child Support Guidelines can obtain this information from the Arizona Administrative Office of the Superior Court.
Response provided by the Department of Child Support Services
Resources:
- Department of Child Support Services - FAQ
- Child Support Calculator Information
- Child Support Guidelines