Child support determinations depend on calculations based on both parents’ incomes. If you have a court-ordered child support agreement in place, you may wonder if you can ever have the agreement modified.
Certain significant changes warrant a child support modification.
Changes in income
One of the most common reasons to revisit a child support order is a substantial and lasting change in the income of either parent. For example, if the paying parent receives a promotion or takes a pay cut at their job or the receiving parent goes back to work, the court may revise the support order.
Changes in living situations
Major changes in custody arrangements or living situations can also prompt child support adjustments. For example, if the paying parent takes on more custody time with the children, payments may decrease. If the receiving parent incurs much higher monthly expenses due to housing or location changes, support could increase.
Changes in children’s needs
Finally, increased expenses related to children’s basic needs, medical costs or education may justify a modification. For instance, if a child develops a chronic health issue that requires regular treatment and medication, the court may decide to raise monthly payments to help cover costs.
A few years have passed
Even without a material change in financial circumstances, the court can review your child support case for adjustments every few years. In those situations, adjustments depend on changes in the cost of living.
The court provides a petition for modification so that you can ask the judge to adjust your child support. Consider your circumstances and gather the necessary supporting information before you file so you can present a strong case.