Frequently Asked Questions: (for a complete list please download our (booklet)

Who can use the program?

Answer: Any father or mother who is the custodial parent or other adult who has custody of a minor and needs help with any of the services we offer such as establishing and enforcing child support, establishing medical support and/or health insurance coverage and establishing paternity. In the Virgin Islands a non-custodial father may also apply for services provided that he is not contesting paternity.

How much do services cost?

Answer: If you are now receiving financial assistance through TANF or Federally-assisted Foster Care Program, you qualify to receive free services. For all other applicants, there is a $20 application fee per case and an annual $25.00 maintenance fee for each case receiving $500 in collections.

Do I have to pay again if I close and reopen my case?

Answer: If you are now receiving financial assistance through TANF or Federally-assisted Foster Care Program, you qualify to receive free services. For all other applicants, there is a $25 fee to reopen a case and an annual $25.00 maintenance fee for each case receiving $500 in collections.

Where do I file/open a child support action?

Answer: PCSD has two office locations, one in each district:

St. Thomas/St. John/Water Island District
1) Paternity and Child Support Division
8000 Nisky Center Suite 500 2nd fl.
St. Thomas, V.I. 00802

St. Croix District
2) Paternity and Child Support Division
RR01 #249 Estate Glynn
Kingshill, St. Croix, V.I. 00850

You can visit either office, and request an application for services.

What information do I need to open a case?

Answer: If you are divorced click here;  if you are married click here;  if you are unmarried click here

How do I open a child support action if the other parent does not live in the Virgin Islands?

Answer: If the non-custodial parent lives in another state you will be asked to complete an interstate petition which will then be filed with the other state. Agencies in different states work together to establish and enforce child support orders.

Does PCSD provide an attorney to represent me in my case?

Answer: No. The child support Attorney does not represent either parent. There is no attorney/client relationship. PCSD attorneys represent only the government’s interest in ensuring that the best interests of the child(ren) are served. While it is not required, you may hire a private attorney to represent you during this process.