Wisconsin Child Support: Phone number, Calculator, & Login
Are you wondering how much money you need to pay in child support? Want to know how to file, how much you’ll get, and when the payments start coming in? You’re in the right place. This article will walk you through everything you need to know about filing for child support in Wisconsin — from what forms to fill out, to when and how you’ll get paid.
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Table of Contents
ToggleHow to File for Child Support?
Do You Need to File for Child Support? Not Always.
If you’re already receiving certain government benefits in Wisconsin, you won’t need to file for child support — the state does it for you automatically.
Here’s when that happens:
- Wisconsin Works (W-2)
- SSI Caretaker Supplement
- Kinship Care
- WI Shares (child care assistance)
- Federally funded foster care
- BadgerCare Plus (only if they refer you)
n these cases, the Wisconsin Child Support Agency will open a case on your behalf. They’ll also help establish paternity if needed and work to enforce child support payments, so you don’t have to handle it alone.
What is the best way to file for child support?
If you’re not receiving any of the aid programs mentioned earlier, don’t worry — filing for child support is straightforward. Download, fill out the Parent Application, and submit it to your nearest local child support agency. If you are the child’s guardian, download, fill out, and submit this form.
How much does it cost to file?
It doesn’t cost anything to file for child support; however, some fees may apply
Possible Fees
Fee Type | Amount | When It Applies |
---|---|---|
Annual Fee | $35 | Only if you receive $550 or more in child support within a year, and you have never received public assistance. |
Court Filing Fees | Varies (typically $0–$50) | If you open a case privately (not through the child support agency). This depends on the county and whether you hire an attorney. |
Service Fees (Sheriff/Process Server) | ~$30–$75 | If someone must be served legal papers (e.g., to establish paternity or notify the other parent). |
Genetic Testing (DNA) | ~$0–$300 | It may be free if ordered by the state; privately requested testing may cost money. |
How long does it take to get child support in Wisconsin?
Stage | Typical Timeframe | Notes |
---|---|---|
Application Processing | 1–4 weeks | After you submit your application to the county child support agency. |
Paternity Establishment (if needed) | 2–3 months | Required if the father is not legally recognized. May involve DNA testing. |
Court Hearing & Order | 1–3 months after filing | A judge sets the support amount. It may be quicker if both parents agree. |
Wage Withholding Begins | 1–2 pay cycles (after order) | Support is typically taken directly from the paying parent’s paycheck. |
First Payment Arrives | 30–60 days (average) | If everything is smooth, first payments usually start within 1–2 months of the court order. |
Wisconsin Child Support Login
You can check your balance, payments, and case information online at the Wisconsin Child Support Online Services Website. Here you will be able to pay child support online. You will also be able to check your child support balance and see payment history.
How do I Contact Wisconsin Child Support?
You can reach them at 1-800-991-5530 or visit your local child support agency.
How much is typical child support in Wisconsin?
The typical amount you need to pay for child support depends on your income, custody, and how many children you have. Here is a simple calculator you can use to calculate how much child support you are responsible for paying.
To give you a rough idea, this is the percentage per child.
- 17% of income for 1 child
- 25% of income for 2 children
- 29% of income for 3 children
- 31% of income for 4 children
- 34% of income for 5 or more children
For a more precise amount, use this calculator; it will take into account shared placement, income, and number of children. For high-income earners, use this worksheet. While there is no cap on how much you will pay, your percentage of income that you have to pay will decrease the more money you make.
Is Child Support Public Record in Wisconsin?
Yes, anyone can search online to see who is behind on child support on the Child Support Lien Docket. Here you all you need is their last name to search and find who is behind or delinquent on child support. You can most certainly go to jail if you don’t pay your child support, so it’s good practice to check periodically that you’re not on this list.
Wisconsin Child Support Card
Child support is paid directly to the receiving parent through a debit card called the Way2Go Card. A debit card will be automatically issued to you, make sure you have your current address on file with child support agency. If you have any issues with the card, call Way2Go at 1-877-253-3686. Payments will be issued to you in two business days from the day the child support agency processes the payment. For example, if a payment is made on Friday, you will receive payment on Tuesday.
How do I check my child support balance in Wisconsin?
Go to the Wisconsin Child Support Website or call 1-877-253-3686
FAQ
How much is typical child support in Wisconsin?
The typical cost depends on your income, child custody, and the number of children. For simplicity, see this chart.
- 17% of income for 1 child
- 25% of income for 2 children
- 29% of income for 3 children
- 31% of income for 4 children
- 34% of income for 5 or more children
For a more accurate estimate, fill out this worksheet.
Where do I check my child support balance in Wisconsin?
You can check it online or call 1-877-253-3686
How do I speak to a live person at Way2Go Wisconsin?
Call 1-877-253-3686
Does a father have to pay child support in Wisconsin?
If they meet the requirements, fill out this worksheet to see how much a father needs to pay.
What is the Wisconsin Child Support phone number?
1-877-253-3686
What is the website for the Wisconsin Child Support Login?
Wisconsin Child Support Website
How can I look up my child support payment history?
Wisconsin Child Support Website
Where can I find the Wisconsin child support calculator?
How can I look up a Wisconsin child support case?
On the Wisconsin Lein Docket.