Use when a parent owes child support, is behind, lost a job, was in jail, or had a driver's license suspended for child support and doesn't know what to do.
In danger right now: call 911. Crisis or thoughts of suicide: call or text 988. Not sure where to start? Call the Silver City Gospel Mission: 575-388-5071. Police, fire or sheriff, not an emergency: 575-388-8840 (Central Dispatch). Print our list of phone numbers →
These are the same steps our staff use when they help someone. "They" means the person who needs help: you, or someone you are helping. Go in order, and call ahead when you can.
1Listen first
You can say"Lots of parents fall behind. There are ways to lower payments and get back on track. Hiding from it makes it worse."
You can ask"Do you have a case with New Mexico Child Support Services, or a court order?"
You can ask"Has your income changed? Did you lose a job, get hurt, or spend time in jail?"
You can ask"Is your driver's license suspended?"
2Call Child Support Services
Help them call and get their case number, what they owe, and their caseworker's name.
NM Health Care Authority - Child Support Services Division
Out of work, with a license suspended or at risk? Ask CSSD about STEPUp!. Taking part can get a certificate to stop a suspension or get the license back.
NM Health Care Authority - Child Support Services Divisionnot yet confirmed: call first
STEPUp! job help to keep or get back a license suspended for child support
2005 Hwy 180 W, Suite 500, Silver City · Phone intake Mon-Thu 9:30 am-4:00 pm at 1-833-545-4357; online application any time at newmexicolegalaid.org. Silver City office: 575-388-0091.
New Mexico State Bar Foundation - Modest Means Helpline
Legal advice and lawyer referrals for low and moderate income people
This guide is general information only, not medical, legal or other professional advice. Places and rules change, so please call before you go. In an emergency, call 911; in a mental health crisis, call or text 988. Disclaimer
Know a better way? Is something out of date?
If a number or place here is wrong, you know a better resource, or you know a better way to help, tell us. We automatically check reliable sources and update supported routine details. Unclear changes and safety guidance go to our staff for review.
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Questions, or want someone to walk through this with you? The Silver City Gospel Mission, 111 S. Texas St., Silver City, 575-388-5071, weekdays 9:00am-1:45pm. Everyone is welcome.