Quick answer
A support application generally requires legal parentage, information about the child, and financial information. A support order and a parenting schedule address different needs.
Do now
Gather income records, childcare costs, health coverage, and any prior support orders. Ask about establishing parentage if it is unresolved. Use the appropriate court or child-support agency rather than relying only on informal cash requests.
Watch for
Interstate cases, public benefits, multiple support orders, and a pending divorce can change the route. Ask when support can begin; do not assume the court will reimburse every earlier expense.
Official sources
NJ Courts — Initial FD application packet, NY Courts — Starting a Child Support Case, DC Courts — Parentage and Child Support Branch.