If you’ve lost a job, faced a medical challenge or watched your expenses soar, you might wonder if it’s time to revisit your child support agreement. Understanding when and how to request a child support modification can make a difference for you and your family.
In this blog, we’ll discuss the key reasons you might consider a modification. After reading, you can better understand the process and determine whether you can file a request.
Reasons to request for a modification
Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and your financial situation can change in the blink of an eye. If you’re unsure whether it’s time to revisit your child support order, here are some common scenarios that might warrant a modification:
- Job loss: If you’ve lost your job or seen your income change by 25% or more, it might be time to look into adjusting your child support. This applies to both paying and custodial parents.
- Health issues: Health challenges can affect anyone, including you, your co-parent or your child. If a serious illness or disability arises, modifying your child support to address these new needs is a valid consideration.
- Changes in your child’s status: As children grow, their needs and statuses change. If your child reaches adulthood, becomes emancipated or graduates from high school, these milestones could warrant a support modification.
- Addition of new kids: Life moves on, and sometimes families grow. If you become responsible for more children, the court may consider lowering child support obligations.
Understanding when and how to request a child support modification can ensure that your agreement reflects your family’s needs. By recognizing the signs and taking proactive steps, you can help ensure that your child support arrangement is fair.
Ensuring a fair child support arrangement
If you’re facing any of these changes, consider reaching out to a family law attorney in Virginia. They can guide you through the process so you can appeal a modification more confidently.