Child support is an important financial arrangement that helps ensure children receive the care and support they need after their parents separate or divorce. However, as life circumstances change, so too can the need for modifications to existing child support agreements.
Parents considering a change to their child support payments must understand when and how these amounts can be modified. Seeking child support modifications can help parents continue to uphold the best financial support plan for their children even when life circumstances change.
When can child support payments be modified?
In Pennsylvania, child support amounts can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances for either the paying or receiving parent. These changes may include:
- Changes in income: A significant increase or decrease in income, such as a job loss, promotion or change in employment status, can justify a modification of child support payments. If a parent can no longer afford the current support amount, or if their income has increased substantially, the child support order may be adjusted accordingly.
- Change in the child’s needs: If the child’s needs change, there may be grounds for a modification. For example, if a child requires additional medical care or starts attending private school, this could result in a change to the original support order.
- Change in custody arrangements: If there is a change in the custody arrangement—such as a parent gaining primary custody or the visitation schedule being altered—this may also lead to a modification. A change in the amount of time a child spends with each parent can impact the support calculation.
- The child reaches the age of majority: In Pennsylvania, child support typically ends when the child turns 18 or graduates from high school (whichever is later). However, if the child has special needs or if the parents agree to provide support beyond this age, the child support order may be modified to reflect those conditions.
No matter the circumstances that lead to a child support modification, modifying a support agreement can help ensure that the financial support provided accurately reflects the needs of the child and the parents’ circumstances, promoting fairness and reducing financial strain on both parents.
How to request a modification
If a parent believes that a modification to their child support order is necessary, they need to file a petition with the Pennsylvania Court or the Pennsylvania Domestic Relations Office. They can request a hearing where they will present evidence of the change in circumstances that justifies the modification. The court will then review the facts and make a decision based on the best interests of the child, considering both parents’ financial situations.
Child support is not a static obligation and it can be adjusted as life circumstances evolve. Seeking legal guidance can help parents wanting to modify their child support agreement to navigate the legal process and ensure that any modifications are fair and in the best interest of their child.