4 Reasons to Modify Child Support Payments – Insights from a Naples Child Custody Lawyer
If a Florida court orders you to pay child support, it is critical that you make the payments on time. Not doing so could lead to strife between you and your ex, as well as legal troubles. However, if your economic circumstances have changed significantly, then it may be possible to modify the child support agreement.
If you have questions about child support or other family law matters, contact the Law Offices of Michael M. Raheb, PA. Mr. Raheb is a child custody attorney in Naples who can explain the modification process and determine if you may be eligible.
Call 866-949-0888 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. You can also visit http://divorce.usattorneys.com/florida to learn more about divorce laws in Florida.
Here are four common reasons to modify child support payments:
- Income Changes
Changes in income are the leading reason for child support modifications. The petition could come from the payee or the receiving parent for an increase or decrease in income, as the Florida Statutes explain.
- Parenting Time Changes
When divorcing spouses create a parenting plan, the amount of time the children spend with each parent will influence the child support payments. If there is a change in the number of days the children spend with each parent, then it may be possible to modify the child support payments.
For example, if your parenting plan specifies that your child will spend 265 days of the year with you and 100 days with your ex, then it is likely that the courts used that pattern to calculate support requirements. If the child spends 300 days with you instead of 265, then your financial obligation toward the children will increase. As a result, you may be entitled to more compensation from the other parent, or if you pay the child support, then you may be able to petition for a payment reduction.
- Expense Changes
Children are expensive and costs can fluctuate enough to warrant a child support modification. If there are changes in child-related expenses or the ability to pay them, then you can petition for a modification. Daycare is a common example, but other factors can influence expenses such as alimony termination, taxes, health insurance for the child and more.
- Job Loss
If one parent loses his or her job, it could have an enormous impact on child support payments. Sometimes parents quit their jobs expressly to lower child support, or they wait to conclude child support before getting another job. The court will not consider a modification unless the parent can provide evidence that the job loss was involuntary.
If you need help with child custody or support issues in Florida, contact the Law Office of Michael M. Raheb, PA. Mr. Raheb is a Naples child custody lawyer who can help you avoid mistakes that could compromise your interests. Call 866-949-0888 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
