Parents in Clearwater, Florida, and the surrounding areas may need to pay child support when they divorce or begin living separately from their child’s other parent. The overall allocation of time-sharing and the difference in income between the parents can influence the total amount of support that one parent pays.
When determining the amount of child support required, factors including the unique needs of the children and the standard of living during the marriage or cohabitation of the parents can affect what the courts view as appropriate. Both the parent receiving child support and the parent making payments may have the option of requesting a review and potentially a modification of the amount of support ordered.
How can parents prove that their circumstances warrant an adjustment of an existing child support order?
Proof of changes in circumstances is necessary
For the courts to review and modify a child support order, there must have been a significant change in financial circumstances. In some cases, the parent receiving support may ask for additional support due to a recent increase in medical expenses or child care expenses. Acquired injuries or a diagnosis with a debilitating condition might increase the costs incurred by the family and warrant a child support modification.
Parents can also request modifications after a change in income or employment status. A paying parent who loses their job or faces a reduction in income can provide evidence of their changing circumstances in the form of pay stubs or bank records to validate that they now earn less.
Parents could also potentially request an adjustment in cases where one parent experiences an increase in income. The paying parent could potentially reduce their obligations due to the good fortune of the recipient parent. The recipient parent could ask for an increase in support if the paying parent receives a promotion or a sizable raise. Generally speaking, the change in circumstances must lead to a change of $50 per month or 15%, whichever is the greater amount.
Reviewing a change in circumstances with a Clearwater child support attorney can help parents evaluate their options. The courts may modify a custody order when a child’s need for support increases or a parent’s income shifts substantially.