Modification of Child Support

A common standard for modification of child support is a substantial change in circumstances. That usually refers to a change in income of the parent who is supposed to pay support. If the parent who is obliged to pay support suffers a loss of income, that could be a basis for reducing support; conversely, if the parent’s income increases, that could be a basis for increasing support.

Changes in the circumstances of the child can also be a reason for modifying support. If the child has significant new expenses such as orthodonture, special classes, or health needs that are not covered by insurance, that too can be a reason for increasing support.

Significant changes in the income of the parent seeking support can also be a basis for modification. If the custodial parent’s income drops (particularly through no fault of the custodial parent), that might be a basis for increasing support. If the custodial parent’s income increases, that might be basis for reducing support from the noncustodial parent.

In some states, support orders may be reviewed automatically every few years to set support consistent with the parents’ current income and the support guidelines.

If the parent who is supposed to pay support has a major drop in income (such as through loss of a job) and the income is not likely to be replaced soon, the parent should promptly go to court to seek modification of child support.

The obligation to pay support at the designated amount continues until a court orders otherwise. A court’s order for child support generally is effective for future support payments only. Normally, a court cannot retroactively modify support payments, even if the parent who was supposed to pay had a good reason for not making full payments.