Closing a case

Request of parent

If neither CalWORKs or MediCal benefits are being received, and there are no arrears owed to the county, a case will be closed on written request from the parent for whom it was opened. If arrears are still owed to the county and the parent requests written closure, the ongoing support case will be closed but the arrears portion of the case will remain open.

After CalWORKs and MediCal benefits end

When CalWORKs aid is discontinued, the child support agency will contact the custodial parent to see if he or she wishes child support services to continue. If the parent wishes services to continue, the case will remain open. Even if the parent declines further services, the child support agency will continue to seek any arrears owed to the county.

Paying parent can't be located

If, after diligent efforts, the paying parent cannot be located the case may be closed. Even if closed, locate efforts will continue and the case re-opened if appropriate.

Case is unenforceable

In the unusual case when circumstances make it clear that support cannot be collected, the case will be closed.

Child emancipated and all support collected

Case will be closed when the last child is emancipated and all child support has been collected and distributed