Techniques for supporting data transmission via a relay station are described. In an aspect, data transmission may be supported using ACK-and-suspend. A transmitter station sends a first transmission of a packet to a receiver station. The transmitter station receives no ACK information for the first transmission of the packet and suspends transmission of the packet. The transmitter station thereafter receives an indication to resume transmission of the packet and, in response, sends a second transmission of the packet. In another aspect, different ACK timeline may be used when applicable. The receiver station may send ACK information in a designated subframe if available for use or in a different subframe. In yet another aspect, ACK repetition may be used. The receiver may send ACK information in multiple subframes to facilitate reception of the ACK information when the transmitter station is unable to receive one or more of the multiple subframes.