Child Support in Wyoming
Last Updated on August 13, 2025 by Rachel
The Arkansas guide is uploaded. I’ll follow its successful structure and adapt it to Wyoming.
Wyoming Child Support Guide for Single Mothers: Your Complete 2025 Handbook
Last updated: August 2025
If You Need Help Today
Emergency situations:
- Domestic violence: National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233 (24/7, confidential) or 988 for immediate mental health crisis
- Immediate legal help: Visit Legal Aid of Wyoming for intake options and local office information: https://www.lawyoming.org
- Crisis assistance and local resources: Wyoming 211 (dial 2-1-1) or https://www.wyoming211.org
- Emergency food and benefits: Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS) assistance programs: https://dfs.wyo.gov/assistance-programs/
Quick action steps:
- Apply for child support services: Wyoming Child Support Program (WCSP) from DFS: https://childsupport.wyo.gov
- Estimate support: Use the Wyoming child support guidelines and worksheet from official state sources. Start at the Wyoming Judicial Branch Self-Help page: https://www.courts.state.wy.us/self-help/
- Get legal advice: Legal Aid of Wyoming provides free/low-cost help: https://www.lawyoming.org
- Apply for emergency benefits: DFS benefits portal (SNAP, Medicaid/Kid Care CHIP, cash assistance): https://dfs.wyo.gov/assistance-programs/
Main Points
- Wyoming uses the Income Shares Model to set child support. Both parents’ incomes are considered under Wyoming Statutes Title 20, Chapter 2 (Child Support Guidelines). See Wyoming statutes via the Legislature: https://wyoleg.gov/StateStatutes.aspx
- You can apply for services even if you’ve never received public assistance. The Wyoming Child Support Program (WCSP) helps establish, modify, and enforce orders: https://childsupport.wyo.gov
- The court can deviate from the guideline amount for specific reasons (like high travel costs for parenting time or unique needs). See statutory factors in Title 20, Chapter 2: https://wyoleg.gov/StateStatutes.aspx
- Payments are typically disbursed electronically (direct deposit or a prepaid debit card) through the State Disbursement Unit. See WCSP “Receiving Payments” info: https://childsupport.wyo.gov
- Support generally continues until a child reaches the age of majority; courts may account for factors like finishing high school. Always confirm details in the current statutes and your order. Wyoming statutes: https://wyoleg.gov/StateStatutes.aspx
- If a parent lives outside Wyoming, interstate tools help enforce support under federal and state law, coordinated through the Wyoming Child Support Program: https://childsupport.wyo.gov
Reality check: Getting a first order can take time—especially if the other parent is hard to locate, lives out of state, or paternity is disputed. Keep documents and communications organized, follow up with your caseworker, and consider legal help for contested issues.
Understanding How Wyoming Child Support Works in 2025
Wyoming follows the Income Shares Model. The idea is simple: estimate what both parents would spend on their child if living together and split that amount in proportion to each parent’s income. The court starts with a presumptive amount from the Wyoming Child Support Guidelines and can adjust for specific reasons listed in the statutes.
Key sources:
- Wyoming Child Support Program (DFS): program services, applications, payments, and enforcement: https://childsupport.wyo.gov
- Wyoming Statutes, Title 20 (Domestic Relations—Child Support): https://wyoleg.gov/StateStatutes.aspx
- Wyoming Judicial Branch Self-Help (forms, guidance, and worksheets): https://www.courts.state.wy.us/self-help/
What this means for you:
- Both incomes matter, not just the noncustodial parent’s.
- Shared or split custody, health insurance, childcare, and other costs can change the final number.
- The guidelines are a starting point. The judge can deviate if there are solid reasons (for example, unusual medical costs, heavy travel for visits, or other factors allowed by statute).
Tip: Use the official worksheet from the court’s self-help resources and talk with a caseworker or lawyer if your situation is complex (self-employment, multiple jobs, variable hours, or shared custody).
Who Can Apply for Wyoming Child Support Services
You can apply for help through the Wyoming Child Support Program if you are:
- A parent with physical custody of a child
- A legal guardian or caretaker of a child
- A parent seeking to establish paternity, set a support order, modify an existing order, or collect past-due support
You do not have to be on public assistance to get services. If either parent is outside Wyoming, the program works with other states and tribal programs under federal law to establish and enforce support.
Learn more or start an application:
- Wyoming Child Support Program (DFS): https://childsupport.wyo.gov
Reality check: If you live outside Wyoming, you might need to appear (sometimes remotely) for Wyoming hearings. Ask your caseworker about options if travel is a barrier.
How Much Child Support Could You Receive?
Wyoming’s guidelines look at:
- Both parents’ gross income
- Number of children in the case
- Health insurance and out-of-pocket medical costs
- Work-related childcare costs
- Parenting time and custody arrangements (shared/split custody adjustments)
- Allowed deviations (like substantial travel costs for visitation, special needs, or other factors listed by statute)
Start with the official worksheet and guideline chart:
- Wyoming Judicial Branch Self-Help (child support forms and guidance): https://www.courts.state.wy.us/self-help/
- Wyoming Statutes (Child Support Guidelines): https://wyoleg.gov/StateStatutes.aspx
Important: Only the court can issue the final support amount. Calculators and worksheets provide estimates. If incomes are irregular (oilfield shifts, ranching seasons, gig work), the court may average income over time.
Table: What affects your guideline amount
| Factor | Why it matters | What to gather |
|---|---|---|
| Combined gross income | Sets the base support from the guideline chart | Recent pay stubs, tax returns, self-employment P&Ls |
| Number of children | More children usually means higher combined support | Birth certificates or existing orders |
| Health insurance | The child’s portion of premiums can be allocated | Proof of premiums and who pays them |
| Childcare costs | Work-related childcare is typically added | Invoices or receipts |
| Parenting time | Shared/split custody can adjust support | Calendar of overnights, prior schedules |
| Special circumstances | Courts can deviate for listed reasons | Medical bills, travel receipts, school needs |
Example (illustration only): If total support for two children according to the guideline chart is X, and you earn 30% of the combined income while the other parent earns 70%, each parent is responsible for 30% and 70% of that total. The noncustodial parent typically pays their share to the custodial parent, and your share is considered covered by the day-to-day care you provide.
Reality check: Deviation isn’t automatic. You must show documentation—like mileage logs and hotel receipts for long-distance parenting time—to ask the court to adjust the amount.
How to Apply for Wyoming Child Support (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Gather documents
- Your photo ID
- Child’s birth certificate(s)
- Proof of income (recent pay stubs, last year’s tax return, unemployment/benefit letters)
- Info about the other parent (full legal name, DOB, SSN if known, last known address, employer, relatives)
- Health insurance details (who covers the child, premium costs)
- Childcare invoices
- Any existing court orders (custody, divorce, protection orders)
Step 2: Apply for services
- Wyoming Child Support Program (DFS): applications and contact: https://childsupport.wyo.gov
- If you’re unsure how to complete the forms, ask your local office or call Legal Aid of Wyoming for guidance: https://www.lawyoming.org
Step 3: Work with your caseworker
- Parent location: WCSP uses state/federal tools to locate a parent when needed (databases, new hire reporting, etc.). See federal Child Support Services overview: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/css
- Paternity: Establish by acknowledgment or genetic testing if needed (Wyoming statutes under Title 20; see: https://wyoleg.gov/StateStatutes.aspx).
- Order establishment: WCSP seeks a court order for child support and medical support.
- Enforcement: Once the order is entered, income withholding and other tools help collect payments.
Step 4: Track your case and payments
- State Disbursement Unit (SDU) processes payments; you can usually choose direct deposit or a prepaid debit card. See WCSP “Receiving Payments”: https://childsupport.wyo.gov
- Keep your address, email, and bank info updated with WCSP.
Reality check: Simple cases can move quickly; others (interstate, disputed paternity, self-employment) take longer. Stay in touch with your caseworker and respond fast when they request information.
Payments, Disbursement, and Your Options
How you get paid
- Direct deposit into your bank account
- Prepaid debit card managed by the state’s vendor through the SDU
- See official details and how to enroll/change options: https://childsupport.wyo.gov
When funds post
- Employers send withheld income to the SDU after each payroll.
- Banks and card providers can take additional time to make funds available.
- For exact timing and any holds, check the SDU guidance at WCSP: https://childsupport.wyo.gov
Table: Pros and cons of payment methods
| Method | Pros | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Direct deposit | Fast once processed; no card fees | Requires bank account; update info if bank changes |
| Prepaid debit card | No bank account needed | ATM network and replacement card fees may apply—read the cardholder agreement |
| Paper checks (if allowed) | Familiar for some | Slower; risk of mail delays or address issues |
Tip: If a bank account closes or a card is lost, notify WCSP immediately to avoid delays or returned payments.
Fees and Costs You Might See
Child support services are a federal-state partnership under Title IV-D of the Social Security Act. Some fees are set by federal law and some by state policy.
- Annual federal collection fee: Federal law requires states to charge a $35 annual fee in certain “never-assistance” cases—meaning cases where the custodial parent has never received Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or similar public assistance. This fee is applied only after at least $550 in child support has been collected for that parent within a single federal fiscal year. For full details, see the U.S. Office of Child Support Services.
- State-specific fees or cost recovery: Check Wyoming Child Support Program’s fee and cost policies, including who pays and when fees apply: https://childsupport.wyo.gov
Note: If you receive certain public assistance, some fees may not apply. Confirm with WCSP before you apply to understand current fees and waivers.
Table: Fees at a glance
| Fee | When it can apply | Who usually pays | Source/where to confirm |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual federal collection fee (often $35) | After $550 collected in a fiscal year in never-assistance cases | State policy may assign to the custodial parent; verify | U.S. OCSS: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/css and WCSP: https://childsupport.wyo.gov |
| Genetic testing | If paternity is contested | Often assessed to one or both parties by court order | Wyoming statutes (Title 20) and WCSP |
| Court filing/service costs | When establishing or modifying orders | Court may allocate between parties | Wyoming Judicial Branch: https://www.courts.state.wy.us |
Reality check: Don’t skip services because you’re worried about fees. In most cases, the long-term benefit of having a reliable order outweighs costs. Ask WCSP to explain any fees in writing.
When Payments Don’t Come: Enforcement in Wyoming
Common enforcement tools used by WCSP (consistent with state and federal law):
- Income withholding (wage garnishment)
- State and federal tax refund intercepts
- Driver’s and professional license suspension
- Credit reporting
- Bank account levies through the Financial Institution Data Match (FIDM)
- Property liens
- Contempt of court (as a last resort)
- Interstate enforcement under the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA)
- Federal enforcement tools for serious, willful nonpayment crossing state lines (refer to U.S. OCSS: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/css)
Wyoming statutes (Title 20, Chapter 2) outline enforcement authority and procedures: https://wyoleg.gov/StateStatutes.aspx
What you can do
- Keep a written payment log (dates, amounts, method).
- Report job changes, addresses, or assets you learn about.
- Use Wyoming 211 to find legal clinics if you’re considering a motion for contempt or modification: https://www.wyoming211.org
- Ask WCSP what they’ve tried and what’s next. Follow up monthly if there’s no movement.
Reality check: Some tools are seasonal (tax intercepts). Others work best when current employment is known (wage withholding). If the other parent is self-employed or paid in cash, enforcement takes longer and may require court action.
Table: Enforcement quick guide
| Tool | What it does | When it’s used | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wage withholding | Deducts support from paychecks | After an order is entered | Most reliable when the parent is W-2 employed |
| Tax refund intercepts | Applies refunds to arrears | If arrears meet thresholds | Seasonal; depends on timing of returns |
| License suspension | Suspends driver/pro licenses | For significant arrears | Can motivate quick payment arrangements |
| Credit reporting | Reports arrears monthly | Past-due status reached | Impacts credit; helps long-term compliance |
| Bank levies (FIDM) | Freezes/seizes funds | When accounts and arrears meet criteria | Requires due process and can take time |
| Contempt | Court can impose sanctions | When other remedies fail | Last resort; may include jail for willful nonpayment |
Modifying Your Order
You can ask to modify (change) your order when there’s a material change, such as:
- A significant shift in income (job loss, new job, overtime changes)
- New or changing childcare or health insurance costs
- A substantial change in parenting time (shared/split custody)
- At regular review intervals permitted by law
How to request a change:
- Contact WCSP about a review: https://childsupport.wyo.gov
- Or file a motion to modify with the court that issued your order. See the Wyoming Judicial Branch Self-Help resources for forms and instructions: https://www.courts.state.wy.us/self-help/
Tip: Bring proof (new pay stubs, job separation letters, childcare invoices, calendars of overnights). Courts base decisions on evidence.
Reality check: Modifications aren’t retroactive to when your situation changed; they usually take effect from the date you filed your request. Don’t wait.
Special Situations and Inclusive Support
LGBTQ+ single mothers
- Wyoming’s child support laws apply regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. If both legal parents are recognized (birth certificates, adoption decrees, or court orders), support obligations can apply.
- If assisted reproduction or nonbiological parentage is involved, consult the court’s self-help resources and speak with an attorney to confirm how to establish parentage before support is ordered.
- Helpful contacts:
- Wyoming Judicial Branch Self-Help: https://www.courts.state.wy.us/self-help/
- Wyoming Equality (statewide LGBTQ+ advocacy): https://www.wyomingequality.org
- ACLU of Wyoming (civil rights assistance): https://www.aclu-wy.org
Native American and tribal connections
- The Wind River Reservation (Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho) is in Wyoming. Some child support matters may involve tribal courts or tribal IV-D programs.
- If a parent lives on tribal lands or is a member of a federally recognized tribe, cases may involve cooperation between the Wyoming Child Support Program, federal Office of Child Support Services, and tribal child support agencies.
- Learn more about tribal child support programs through the U.S. Office of Child Support Services: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/css/tribal-child-support
- If your case involves tribal jurisdiction, tell your caseworker immediately so they can coordinate with the proper authority.
Rural families with limited access
- Distance and weather can make in-person visits tough. Ask WCSP about phone or video appointments when possible: https://childsupport.wyo.gov
- Use your local public library for internet access to complete forms or print documents. Wyoming 211 can help find a nearby library or community center: https://www.wyoming211.org
- Courts may offer remote hearing options in some circumstances. Check with the clerk of the court on your case and review the Judicial Branch site: https://www.courts.state.wy.us
Single fathers seeking child support
- Single fathers have the same rights and access to services under Wyoming law.
- Apply through WCSP, use the same forms, and ask for enforcement if you have an order and aren’t getting paid: https://childsupport.wyo.gov
- Legal Aid of Wyoming can advise regardless of gender: https://www.lawyoming.org
Realities, Tips, and Warnings
- Documentation wins cases. Keep pay stubs, childcare receipts, health insurance bills, and a calendar of overnights.
- Self-employment and cash income are difficult. Courts can average income using tax returns and bank statements. Be ready to show real numbers.
- Long-distance parenting time is common in Wyoming. Bring travel logs and proof of expenses if you’re asking for a deviation related to visitation costs.
- Don’t rely on verbal agreements. Payments should go through the State Disbursement Unit so they’re tracked. Side deals can backfire.
- If you’re in danger, tell the court and WCSP. Address confidentiality and safe contact methods can be arranged in many cases.
Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)
Q: Do I have to live in Wyoming to open a case here?
A: No. You can apply through the Wyoming Child Support Program even if you live in another state, especially if the other parent or the original order is in Wyoming. WCSP coordinates interstate cases under federal law. Learn more: https://childsupport.wyo.gov
Q: Is there an official Wyoming child support calculator?
A: Use the Wyoming Judicial Branch self-help resources for the current guidelines and worksheet. Some courts or legal aid sites provide calculators or spreadsheets. Start here: https://www.courts.state.wy.us/self-help/ and always confirm with the court’s official forms.
Q: Can I get retroactive support for past years?
A: Courts commonly award support from the date you filed your petition and can consider earlier periods in specific circumstances allowed by Wyoming law. The details are very case-specific—review Title 20 statutes: https://wyoleg.gov/StateStatutes.aspx and seek legal advice: https://www.lawyoming.org
Q: How does shared or split custody affect support?
A: Wyoming’s guidelines allow adjustments when overnights are shared or when children live with different parents part-time. The court uses the guidelines and statutory factors to calculate an adjusted amount. See the Judicial Branch self-help resources: https://www.courts.state.wy.us/self-help/
Q: What if the other parent is self-employed or paid in cash?
A: WCSP and courts can use tax returns, bank statements, and business records to determine income. If a parent is voluntarily underemployed, courts can impute income. See Wyoming statutes (Title 20) and discuss with Legal Aid of Wyoming: https://www.lawyoming.org
Q: How long does support last?
A: Generally, support continues until a child reaches the age of majority. Wyoming courts may account for finishing high school and other allowed factors. Always review your order and confirm the current statutes: https://wyoleg.gov/StateStatutes.aspx
Q: Can I change from a prepaid card to direct deposit?
A: Yes. Update your disbursement choice with the State Disbursement Unit through WCSP. Instructions are on the WCSP site: https://childsupport.wyo.gov
Q: The paying parent moved to another state. Now what?
A: WCSP works with child support agencies in other states to enforce your Wyoming order under UIFSA. Provide any new addresses or employer info to your caseworker: https://childsupport.wyo.gov
Q: What if I think the amount is wrong?
A: Talk to your caseworker and review the official worksheet. If you disagree with the order, ask an attorney about appeal deadlines or file a motion to modify if your situation has changed. Forms and guidance: https://www.courts.state.wy.us/self-help/
Q: Will my benefits be affected by child support?
A: Child support can interact with certain benefits. Ask DFS about how support affects your SNAP, Medicaid/Kid Care CHIP, or cash assistance. DFS programs information: https://dfs.wyo.gov/assistance-programs/
Helpful Tables
Table: Documents checklist for your application
| Document | Why it’s needed |
|---|---|
| Child’s birth certificate | Proves parentage and identity |
| Your photo ID | Confirms your identity |
| Income proof (pay stubs, tax returns) | Calculates guideline support |
| Other parent’s information | Helps locate and serve |
| Health insurance details | Medical support calculations |
| Childcare invoices | Work-related childcare costs |
| Existing court orders | Ensures consistency |
Table: Ways to apply and get help
| Need | Where to go | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Apply for services | Wyoming Child Support Program (DFS) | https://childsupport.wyo.gov |
| Court forms/worksheet | Wyoming Judicial Branch Self-Help | https://www.courts.state.wy.us/self-help/ |
| Free legal advice | Legal Aid of Wyoming | https://www.lawyoming.org |
| Benefits screening | DFS Assistance Programs | https://dfs.wyo.gov/assistance-programs/ |
| Local resource navigation | Wyoming 211 | https://www.wyoming211.org |
Table: Situations that may justify deviation
| Situation | What to document |
|---|---|
| High travel costs for parenting time | Mileage logs, fuel receipts, lodging |
| Special medical/educational needs | Bills, insurance EOBs, letters from providers |
| Very high or very low income situations | Tax returns, proof of expenses |
| Shared/split custody beyond standard | Calendar of overnights, school schedules |
Table: Modification triggers
| Change | Evidence to bring |
|---|---|
| Job loss/new job/changed hours | New pay stubs, separation letters, contracts |
| New childcare or health insurance costs | Updated invoices, premium statements |
| Shift to shared custody | Updated calendars, parenting plan |
| Three-year review point | Copy of current order and financials |
Resources by Region (Find Local Help Fast)
Because Wyoming is large and many offices serve multiple counties, your best first step is to use official locators and statewide help lines:
- Find your local child support office and contact info: Wyoming Child Support Program (DFS): https://childsupport.wyo.gov
- Courts by county (clerks of district court): Wyoming Judicial Branch directory: https://www.courts.state.wy.us
- Legal aid clinics and intake options: Legal Aid of Wyoming: https://www.lawyoming.org
- Community services statewide: Wyoming 211: https://www.wyoming211.org
Tip: Call ahead before visiting. Weather, staffing, and court calendars can change walk-in hours.
Complete Wyoming Child Support Resources and Contacts
State and courts:
- Wyoming Child Support Program (Department of Family Services): services, applications, payments, enforcement: https://childsupport.wyo.gov
- Wyoming Judicial Branch Self-Help (family law, child support forms, and information): https://www.courts.state.wy.us/self-help/
- Wyoming Statutes (Title 20—Domestic Relations): https://wyoleg.gov/StateStatutes.aspx
Legal help and advocacy:
- Legal Aid of Wyoming (eligibility and intake): https://www.lawyoming.org
- Wyoming State Bar (lawyer referral): https://www.wyomingbar.org
- ACLU of Wyoming (civil rights): https://www.aclu-wy.org
- Wyoming Equality (LGBTQ+): https://www.wyomingequality.org
Benefits and family supports:
- DFS Assistance Programs (SNAP, cash, Medicaid/Kid Care CHIP, childcare): https://dfs.wyo.gov/assistance-programs/
- Wyoming 211 (local food, housing, utilities help): https://www.wyoming211.org
- WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) via Wyoming Department of Health: https://health.wyo.gov (search “WIC”)
Federal resources:
- U.S. Office of Child Support Services (program overview, interstate/tribal): https://www.acf.hhs.gov/css
- Tribal child support programs overview: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/css/tribal-child-support
Emergency and safety:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988
- National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
The ASingleMother.org team has been researching and writing comprehensive benefits guides for single mothers across all 50 states since 2020. Our editorial team regularly updates these guides by reviewing official government sources, contacting state agencies, and incorporating feedback from hundreds of single mothers who have used these programs.
This Wyoming guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the child support system. We verify information with official sources including Wyoming Department of Family Services, Wyoming Child Support Program, Wyoming Judicial Branch, Legal Aid of Wyoming, USDA, and HHS to ensure accuracy.
Information compiled from official Wyoming Department of Family Services, Wyoming Child Support Program, Wyoming Judiciary, Legal Aid of Wyoming, and federal sources. Last verified: August 2025.
The ASingleMother.org editorial team welcomes feedback on this guide. If you find outdated information or discover new resources, please contact us at info@asinglemother.org so we can help other single mothers with accurate, current information.
Disclaimer
This guide provides general information about Wyoming child support law and procedures as of August 2025. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws and program details can change, and individual situations vary.
Always:
- Verify current information with the Wyoming Child Support Program: https://childsupport.wyo.gov
- Consult with an attorney for advice specific to your situation (Legal Aid of Wyoming: https://www.lawyoming.org)
- Keep detailed records of communications and payments
- Report changes in your circumstances to WCSP promptly
- Review your case regularly through your local office or the court clerk
The information in this guide:
- Is for educational purposes and may not apply to every situation
- Is subject to change without notice as laws and regulations are updated
- Should be verified with official sources before making legal or financial decisions
Limitation of liability: While we strive for accuracy, this guide cannot cover every scenario or exception to Wyoming child support law. For the most current information and case-specific guidance, contact the Wyoming Child Support Program or a qualified family law attorney.
