Modifying a child support order is the process through which certain parts of a child support order are changed. Each time an order is modified, a new order is created.
There are two main reasons to modify a child support order:
Depending on the situation, the amount of child support a person owes can increase or decrease. However, a judge will only decrease the amount of child support owed under very specific circumstances
Reasons for a judge to decrease the amount owed include:
Note: this information will generally also apply to alimony and cash-medical support payments.
Multiple children can be listed on a single child support order. Generally speaking, each child listed on a child support order increases the amount of child support owed.
To add a child to a child support order, the parents listed on the order must be the legal parents of that child.
Every child support order has an end date (termination). This date is usually a child's 18th birthday or high school graduation.
If you find the amount owed in child support doesn't change after one of multiple children becomes an adult, you may have to modify the order to make sure the right amount owed. The only exception would be if the child has a disability and needs extra support.
