The Child Support Division in the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) for most states provides child support services at little or no cost to mothers, fathers, and other individuals who request services. When providing child support services, the OAG represents the state and its interest in obtaining the financial support and involvement of both parents, and does not represent either parent in providing child support services. The OAG generally assists in (1) locating absent parents; (2) establishing paternity; (3) establishing, enforcing, and modifying child and medical support orders; and (4) collecting and distributing child support payments.

In Iowa, the Child Support Recovery Unit (CSRU) within the Department of Human Services operates similarly to the Child Support Division in the Office of the Attorney General in other states. The CSRU provides services to custodial and non-custodial parents, as well as to guardians, with the goal of ensuring that children receive financial support from both parents. The services are typically offered at a minimal cost. The CSRU assists with locating absent parents, establishing paternity, and establishing, enforcing, and modifying child and medical support orders. Additionally, the CSRU is responsible for collecting and distributing child support payments. It's important to note that while the CSRU provides these services, it does not represent either parent in a legal sense. Instead, the CSRU represents the state's interest in securing financial support for children.