If I receive certain medical benefits, am I required to cooperate with the Division of Child Support Enforcement?

Yes. In order to receive certain types of medical benefits, you must cooperate with the Division of Child Support Enforcement to:

1. Establish paternity for your child(ren) if it is not already determined; and
2. Obtain medical coverage for the child(ren). Medical coverage includes either health insurance or the financial support to cover medical expenses for the child.

How do I cooperate with the Division of Child Support Enforcement?

You cooperate by:

1. Completing and returning all forms that the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services, Division of Child Support Enforcement has asked you to return. You must complete the forms to the best of your ability, filling out as much information as you know.
2. You must return forms within the given timeframe.
3. Showing up for appointment(s) with the Division of Child Support Enforcement or legal representative. If you are unable to attend the appointment, you must call the Division of Child Support Enforcement or your legal representative to reschedule.
4. Showing up for court hearings. If you are unable to attend the court hearing, you must call the legal representative indicated on your notice. There is no guarantee the court will continue the case and you may have to appear for another interview to reestablish your case(s).
5. Appearing for genetic testing with your child(ren), if needed.

What if I don't have the information that is asked for on the forms?

You can mark that you don't know the information asked for on the forms, but you must return the forms with as much information as you know by the date given on the form.

What happens to my medical benefits and my children's when my cash assistance benefits are cancelled?

If you lose your cash benefits because your income increased, medical benefits for you and your children will be extended for at least 6 months. For more information on your cash benefits, contact your Department of Human Services (DHS) caseworker.

Will I have to pay for the child support enforcement services? No, all child support services are Free. Who do I call if I have questions about the Child Support Enforcement program? Call the Child Support Customer Service Call Center at 1-800-447-4278.

What are the benefits of cooperating with the Division of Child Support Enforcement?

1. The department tries to get additional financial support from the parent not living with your child, which will increase the amount of money needed to raise your child.
2. Establishing paternity is beneficial for your child, as he or she may need family medical histories from both parents to have a healthy future.
3. Establishing paternity is also important so your child can claim Social Security benefits, pension benefits, veteran's benefits, life insurance and inheritance.
4. You will continue to receive your medical benefits.
5. If you complete and return the forms you receive from Child Support, you may not need to come into a child support office for an interview.

What happens if I do not cooperate with the Division of Child Support Enforcement?

Your medical benefits may be taken away from you. To get your medical benefits back, you will have to cooperate with Child Support Enforcement. Your children will continue to receive their medical benefits.

How do I know if I am receiving medical benefits? If only my child(ren) receive medical benefits and I do not receive medical benefits, am I still required to cooperate with the Division of Child Support Enforcement?

If your name is on the back of the card, it is likely that you are receiving medical benefits and will have to cooperate with Child Support Enforcement. If you do not receive medical benefits, you are not required to participate with Child Support Enforcement.

However, you will receive a letter from the Division of Child Support Enforcement explaining that you may apply for free child support services. If you are interested, you must complete and return the application that comes with the letter. We encourage you to complete and return the application, so we may assist you in obtaining the child support that your child(ren) deserve.