Paying child support can lead to a variety of feelings. On the plus side, you know that the money you pay is helping your child live a better life. On the downside, you may have some frustration regarding the impact on your personal finances.
Generally speaking, you are required to pay the amount of child support ordered by the court. However, if there comes a time when your financial situation changes, you may be able to request a modification.
If you’re interested in requesting a child support modification, here are some of the most important questions to answer:
- What has changed in your life that gives you reason to believe the court will approve a child support modification request? You need to prove that you are no longer able to make payments, such as by showing that you are unemployed or unable to earn money as the result of a serious illness.
- Do you understand the process of requesting a child support modification? There is more to this than simply asking the court to make a change. You need to follow the appropriate steps, to improve your chance of success.
- Have you spoken with the other parent about your situation? You don’t want to keep this person in the dark. Instead, let him or her know what you are going through and your plans for the future. They may agree to a child support modification for the meantime, which will improve your chance of a court approval.
- Are you continuing to make your child support payments? Even if you are unable to pay in full, you should keep up to the best of your ability. The court expects you to do so until they rule on your request.
Even if you take great pride in making your child support payments in full and on time, there could be a situation that calls for a change. If this happens, you’ll want to answer the questions above and make sure you understand your legal rights.