Paying child support may not be the best way to spend your money in your eyes, but you know one thing to be true: It feels good to do something that makes life easier on your child.
If you are required by the court to pay child support, it’s important that you stay current with your payments no matter what it takes.
If a time comes when you are unable to make a child support payment, you need to consider your options. Do you have reason to believe that the issue will persist? If so, it’s time to consider requesting a child support modification.
Here are the steps for doing so:
- Don’t wait to take the first step, as the court won’t know something is wrong until you bring it to light.
- Learn more about child support modification laws in your state, such as what the court considers a significant change in circumstances.
- Reach out to the other parent. If he or she agrees to a child support modification, you can avoid many hassles of the courtroom.
- Stay current to the best of your ability.
- Document your recent change in circumstances, as you’ll need to show why you are requesting a modification.
Requesting a child support modification is a big deal, as this means you are no longer able to make your payments in full as initially required.
There is no guarantee that the court will grant your modification, but if you take the right steps you can put yourself in position for success. A modification may be just what you need to make your life a bit easier.
Source: FindLaw, “Child Support Modification Tips,” accessed Sep. 15, 2017
