Child Support Modernization

The Bureau of Child Support (BCS) is excited to be working on the planning phase of the Child Support Modernization (CSM) project, which kicked off in early 2021. The purpose of the CSM project is to modernize the child support program and related child support automated systems – such as Kids Information Data System (KIDS).

Overhead view of graphs, pie charts and numbers

The CSM project vision is to develop a child support program that allows state and partner agencies to provide efficient service to customers, while ensuring that children and families receive financial and medical support. 

To accomplish this, the project has adopted a mission to incorporate national best practices that utilize modern technology, automation, and business intelligence designed to meet the ongoing needs of the child support program, while providing flexibility for future system enhancements.

The project is guided by three fundamental principles:

  • we value and respect the diversity of our customers and partners; 
  • we value data as a key factor to increase operational efficiency; and 
  • we recognize the value change brings to our organization.

The CSM project will impact thousands of stakeholders in over 100 stakeholder groups, including children, parents, and families; employers; local county and tribal child support agencies; judges and family court commissioners; clerks of court; DCF; state and federal partner agencies; private partners, etc.

Pre-planning work for the project began in 2019 and included meetings with BCS, BITS, and local child support agency staff. The project is expected to take up to 10 years to complete. The current planning phase includes: 

  • identifying detailed solution requirements; 
  • selecting a modernized system solution; 
  • securing state and federal funds to design, develop and implement the new system; and 
  • procuring vendors to assist with the work.

For each procurement effort, DCF has developed an overview with estimated timelines. DCF plans to release the first of several modernization requests for proposals (RFPs) in fall 2022. The estimated timelines are subject to change without notice.

One of the key results of this phase is the completion of a streamlined feasibility study, which is one of many requirements to receive federal approval and funding.