Outdated addresses, uncashed checks and incomplete information prevent distribution to families 

SANTA FE — The New Mexico Health Care Authority’s Child Support Services Division is seeking help from the public to connect approximately $1.2 million in undelivered child support payments to their rightful recipients.  

“It could be that we have an outdated address and the payment is undeliverable, an uncashed check that has passed its expiration date, or payments made through a money order or check with no identifiable information that can be tied to a child support case,” said Betina Gonzales McCracken, Child Support director. “There is nothing that would make us happier than finding the rightful owners of these funds and getting the money into the households to which it is owed.” 

Child Support staff review the list of undistributed collections each month and successfully return much of the money to families. Since 2023, the program has seen a 4.4% drop in the total amount of undistributed collections. However, the portion of payments on hold due to incomplete or outdated information has remained steady at about $1.2 million. The Child Support program is now turning to the public for help to get these funds to the families to whom they belong.  

The HCA is asking current or former child support parents who believe they may be owed a payment — or who believe a payment was made but not credited to their account — to contact the agency and provide as much information as possible. Information needed may include: 

• Updated contact information (address and phone number). 
• Payment details. 
• Date of payment. 
• Payment source (check or money order number). 
• Payment amount. 
• Checks from a third party with no identifiable case information. 
• Direct deposit information for electronic payment. 

If you believe you may be connected to any of these undistributed payments, please contact the Health Care Authority’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-283-4465 and provide detailed information so Child Support staff can research the funds and distribute them appropriately. 

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About the New Mexico Health Care Authority
The New Mexico Health Care Authority connects New Mexicans to the care and support they need to live healthy, full lives. The agency administers Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), cash assistance, child support services, and behavioral health care across the state. HCA also oversees the State Health Benefits program for state employees and manages the Health Care Affordability Fund to help make coverage more affordable for working families. The agency licenses health care facilities, investigates complaints, and ensures providers deliver safe, high-quality care. In addition, HCA supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through a variety of home and community-based programs that protect health, safety, and human rights.