How can i get child support?

My son is over 2 years old and his father has only paid child support one time and it was because he claimed income taxes and they were taken and given to me. I also recently found out he's probably facing some prison time and i heard there is a way to get the government to pay my child support and then he has to pay them back. Does anyone know if this is true or know of any other way i can get child support? And please dont mention TANF cash because it's bullshit - i cant put in 20 hours a week for 200 a month thats stupid. I just want my child support...