When Can You Modify Child Support?
A 'Substantial Change' in Circumstances
The short answer is you can modify your child support if there is a substantial change in your or your child's circumstances. Substantial circumstances can mean a variety of things. For example, your child may suddenly require special classes. Or, your child may need surgery or need extra money as a result of special healthcare needs. These would be legitimate reasons to request an increase in child support payments. Conversely, your circumstances may have changed. A significant decrease in income can be a good reason to request a decrease in child support payments if you're the non-custodial parent. Decreases in income can come from switching jobs, getting laid off, or getting your pay slashed. And, sometimes the custodial parent's income can be a factor. Say that your ex-wife has custody of your children. Before, she only had an annual income of $40,000. Now, after switching careers, she's making $150,000 a year. This might be a good reason to request a reduction in how much child support you pay.How Long Will the Modification Last?
Child support modifications can be temporary, or they can be permanent. If you and your ex-spouse cannot come to an agreement about the child support modification, you will likely have to go through a hearing in front of a judge. But, keep in mind that child support orders are filed with the court. So even if you and your ex-spouse privately agree on how to modify child support, you will need to go back to court to finalize the agreement. Related Resources:- Find Family Law Attorneys Near You (FindLaw's Lawyer Directory)
- Child Support Modification FAQ (FindLaw)
- Browse Child Support Lawyers by Location (FindLaw)
- Does Child Support Stop When a Kid Turns 18? (FindLaw's Law and Daily Life)
- What Happens at a Child Support Court Hearing? (FindLaw's Law and Daily Life)
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