Why You May Need a Child Support Modification

Child support agreements are not set in stone. Circumstances can change over time for both parents and children. Keep in mind that you can’t change the terms of the arrangement without a judge’s approval. Here are a few reasons why you may need a child support modification in the future.

Decrease in Income

Some changes in income can be out of your control. For example, you might have had your pay cut or hour reduced. You may have also lost some of your clients or terminated from your job. Whatever the reason for your change in income, it can make it more difficult to keep up with child support payments. In this situation, you may be eligible for a child support modification.

Change in Parenting Time

Parenting time is another factor that affects child support payments. The amount of time you spend parenting your kids can influence your child support amount. If you currently pay child support and the other parent has to take on more hours at work and asks you to take on more parenting duties, you may ask for a reduction in your child support payments.

Health Issues

It is always disheartening to find out that you have developed new health problems. They may prevent you from working your job and participating in your favorite activities. Health problems can also affect your child support payments. You may no longer be able to provide as much financial support or physical parenting time to your child.

Likewise, if your child is the one who gets diagnosed with a new health issue, you have to bear more of a financial burden. Your child support treatments may increase after the new health diagnosis.

Changes in the Child’s Needs

As children grow older, their needs can change considerably. For example, if a child joins more extracurricular activities, it can cost more money, increasing your payments. Many children also require orthodontic work once they reach their teenage years, so this can cost even more money.

Increase in Income

Whether you get a raise at work or get a new job that has a higher salary, an increase in income can definitely make you feel good. However, if you pay child support, you should understand that your payments may now increase. The other parent may petition the court to have you pay more in child support every month.

Incarceration

While on the extreme side of things, being in jail can definitely affect a parent’s ability to pay child support. For this reason, a judge can review your child support order and make adjustments.

Assistance with Child Support Modification

If you would like to request a child support modification, you may want to consult a child support lawyer residents turn to, like one from the Law Office of Daniel E. Stuart, P.A. as soon as possible. An experienced lawyer can present your case in front of a judge and improve your likelihood of achieving a favorable outcome.