Do you have to file for child support? 22 Answers as of November 10, 2011

Paternity must be established before the court will order child support. If the parents are married, then paternity is presumed, but it can be rebutted. If the parents are not married, then the mother should contact the Washington State Division of Child Support. A paternity test will be requested, and once paternity is established, the father will be required to pay child support.

In Wisconsin, if you apply for any sort of state benefits, the state will start a child support action even if the mother hasn't asked for support. That could be what they meant by 'have to' file.

It is true that she cannot file for $0.00 child support. Not sure in what context she "has" to file for child support, but if she does file, that support in Nevada is a minimum of $100 per month or 18% of the non-custodial parent's gross income.

She can choose not to ask for child support. My advise is for the parties to get something in writing, to protect both sides though. This written agreement can state zero child support, it can determine who pays for medical care, daycare, etc. and it can state who gets what time with the child. That is how it protects both sides. Keep in mind, mom and dad have equal rights unless a judge (or written agreement) says otherwise.

The county would require child support if any public assistance is expended on behalf of the child such as daycare assistance, medical assistance or food stamps.

A mother is not required to file for child support. However, if she is receiving public assistance, the state will file for her to receive reimbursement from the father for benefits paid to the mother.

She has to file if she wants to get it.

I don't understand the second part of the question. You must file a complaint for child support. If there is no child, as in the child is unborn, there can be no support.

Your friend needn't file anything. However, the welfare of the baby might be compromised if Child Support is not paid the child should be supported by both parents. Your friend has the option of doing nothing, or seeking Child Support through the local public agency that handles Child Support or seeking full custody and support orders via a Paternity Case under the Uniform Parentage Act. If the father files a Paternity Case, your friend should file responsive documents seeking custody and Child Support.

They can have an informal agreement on a support amount without filing any paperwork.