It is important to understand when you can make a change to your court-ordered child support obligation due to a change in income. If there has been a substantial decrease in your income or increase in the income of your child’s other parent, you must petition the court for a modification. Do not decrease the amount you are paying or just stop paying child support. Protect your rights and seek the advice of a qualified child support attorney.
A Supplemental Petition for Modification may be appropriate if there has been a substantial change in the income of one of the parties and the change is long term and continuing, if health insurance becomes available or there is a change in the cost of child care, or if the child has reached the age of emancipation. The change in income must be a difference of 15% or $50 per month, whichever is greater, in order to be considered substantial.
A decision to decrease or stop paying child support without an Order or written agreement by the parties can mean the loss of your drivers license or even jail time. If you feel you are paying too much support due to a change in financial circumstances, contact Family Law of Orlando to schedule an initial consultation with Attorney Wade P. Luther. We can be reached by email or by calling (407) 835-9900.