Child Support

The Child Support unit provides assistance to children by establishing paternity, locating absent parents and establishing/enforcing/modifying support orders (which include child support, medical support and child care support whether the parent lives in Minnesota or not). Single parents of the Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) and Medical Assistance (MA) are automatically referred and are required to use this service. Services that are NOT provided by the Child Support unit include:  divorces, visitation and custody, alimony establishment and legal advice or counsel.


Parents who do not receive public assistance can apply for Child Support services and are charged a $25 annual collection fee. An applicant for the services will also pay a 2% MN cost recovery fee which pays for some of the costs associated with operating the Minnesota Child Support Program.

If you need to talk to someone in the Child Support unit, please call 507.377.5411.

Child Support Application

You may apply for child support services by filling out the Child Support Application (PDF) and returning it to the Freeborn County Department of Human Services, or by using the new electronic application at https://edocs.mn.gov/forms/DHS-1958-ENG. Either parent and/or guardian can apply for Child Support services.

Payment Options

PayNearMe is a fairly new service that allows you more convenient options for paying your child support. You'll need your 10-digit MCI number to obtain a PayNearMe barcode. A fee of $1.99 per transaction may apply and it may take three-four business days for your payment to post to your child support account.

If you have questions regarding your child support payment(s), contact: 

Payment Center
1-800-657-3512

You will need your four-character PIN number and your 10-digit MCI number to access your account.
Sheena Ericksen
  1. Sheena Ericksen

    Child Support Supervisor

    Department of Human Services
    203 Clark St W
    PO Box 1246
    Albert Lea MN 56007

    Phone:   507.377.5400
    TDD:      507.377.5519
    FAX:       507.377.5498

    Hours
    Monday-Friday  8:00 am - 5:00 pm