License Suspension Information
Requirements for Unemployed Obligors

An obligor is the person ordered to pay child support.  An obligor may also be referred to as the non-custodial parent or caretaker.  The responsibilities of the obligor include the following:

  • Make timely support payments.
  • Pay child support through the Child Support Enforcement Agency (CSEA), not directly to the obligee (the person to whom child support is owed).  Direct payments to the obligee are considered a "gift" and cannot be credited toward the child support obligation.
  • Inform the CSEA of any changes in address, phone number, employment status or medical insurance coverage.
  • Provide documents requested from the CSEA by the state deadline (the deadline is listed on notices you have received).
  • Enroll the child in a health insurance plan, if ordered by the court or CSEA, and provide any necessary documentation to the child's parent or caretaker.
  • Inform the CSEA of any of the following reasons why an order should terminate:  a.) death of any party, b.) change of legal custody, c.) emancipation or adoption, or d.) any status change that may occur. 
  • Report any problems or issues that arise in the case to the CSEA.

We're here to help!

If you have questions, please contact the Division of Child Support's customer service at 330-451-8930.  The line is open Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Obligor FAQ

To be an effective partner with the CSEA, the obligor should pay their child support obligation in full each month, enroll the child in a health insurance plan (if ordered), keep us informed of any changes in their status (address, phone number, or employment), and report any problems or issues in the support case (arrears paid in full, spousal support obligation to end, etc.).  

It's also important to remember that payments for child support must be made through the CSEA or CSPC.  Do not make payments directly to the obligee.  You will not receive credit for direct payments to the obligee; by law, direct payments are considered a "gift".

Your child support case manager will need you to provide the following information for your case:

  • Name, address, date of birth, Social Security number (SSN)
  • Name and address of your current or most recent employer
  • Any information on income, such as pay stubs or tax return

Here are some helpful tips regarding your child support order and the process:

  • Please be aware that support orders are effective the day the order is file stamped, unless otherwise noted in the court order. 
  • We advise you to maintain good records of all your child support payments - keep a file and get in the habit of regularly updating it with your child support documents.
  • The CSEA does not enforce visitation orders. 
  • "Arrears" are a failure to make your child support payments in a timely manner.  These will cause you to fall behind on your child support order.
  • CSEA may initiate any of the following actions to collect arrearages on your case:
      • Additional wage withholding to satisfy any arrearages
      • Interception of federal and state income tax refunds
      • Referral to consumer reporting agencies
      • Revoke your driver's, professional or recreational license
      • Put a lien on your house or personal property
      • Freeze and/or seize your bank account
      • File a contempt action with the court