Modifying Child Support During COVID-19

As COVID-19 continues to wreak havoc on the national and global economy, many parents responsible for paying child support each month are in danger of no longer being able to make payments. If you’ve suffered a loss in income due to COVID-19, you may be able to modify your child support agreement to reduce your financial burden.
 

Child Support Modification Requirements

Generally speaking, one or more of the following conditions must be met in order for you to be eligible to lower or eliminate child support payments:

• You lose your job or get a wage reduction
• You have an illness or disability that prevents you from working
• Your ex remarries or moves in with a new partner
• Your ex’s income dramatically increases

If you have recently lost your job because of the pandemic, it’s possible that you can file for child support modification. Similarly, if you have contracted coronavirus and will be unable to work for a significant period of time, that may qualify you for reduced payments as well.

How To Request Child Support Modification

If you believe you are eligible for child support modification, your first step should be to contact an experienced divorce and family law attorney.

Also, be prepared to show that you’ve been looking for work. Print your emails to potential employers and copies of any applications you’ve sent. You’ll also have to submit information about your income, expenses, assets, and debts so a judge can recalculate child support.

Your attorney will walk you through the process, and ultimately the judge in your case will make a decision based on the documents and any other supporting evidence provided by you and your ex.

If you are uncertain about whether or not you are eligible for child support modification, due to the COVID-19 crisis or for another reason, please contact our office for a free phone consultation.