Q: Child support not adjusted despite lower income and custody changes. What can I do?
I am a single father struggling with child support payments that haven't been adjusted despite my lower-paying job and having my child live with me for half of 2024. I contacted the child support agency, faxed my paperwork three months ago, and they paused payments for two months before restarting them without change. I haven't received any written explanation. What can I do to ensure my payments are fair and reflect my current situation?
A: File a motion to modify child support with the court.
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A:
You’ve taken the right first steps by notifying the child support agency and submitting your paperwork, but if they’ve restarted payments without adjusting anything or explaining why, it’s time to act more directly. You have the right to file a motion in family court to request a modification of your child support order. The court can review your current income and the time your child spent living with you to determine if your payments should be lowered.
Make sure to gather all supporting documentation—pay stubs, proof of job change, and anything that shows your child lived with you for part of 2024. If you didn’t receive a written explanation from the agency, ask them in writing to clarify the status of your case and include the date you originally sent your documents. Keeping a paper trail helps in court and shows you’ve been proactive and cooperative.
It’s frustrating to feel like you’re being ignored, especially when your situation has clearly changed. Don’t give up—filing in court can often lead to more timely results than waiting on the agency. Your child deserves support from both parents, but the amount should reflect what’s actually fair and possible for you. You’re showing up and doing your best, and that counts for a lot.
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