Paying child support may not be something you mind, as you realize the money is going toward your child living a better life. However, just because you can pay child support today doesn’t mean this will remain the case in the future. There is a chance that your situation could change, leading you to struggle to keep up with payments.
If a child support modification is on your mind, you need to learn more about making this request. In the end, this could save you a lot of money and stress (at least for the time being).
Here are five child support modification tips that you can lean on:
Take immediate action to solve your problem. If you realize you can’t make your child support payments you need to take action sooner rather than later. Waiting around could make things worse.
Learn more about child support modification laws in your state. For example, you need to understand why you may qualify for a modification.
Talk to the other parent. Rather than go behind his or her back, let the other parent know that you have run into some financial troubles. They may agree to your child support modification, making it that much easier to get the court on board.
Keep making payments. Even if you can’t pay in full, you should do your best to keep up. Assuming you can simply stop making payments is a big mistake.
Document your change in circumstances. The court needs proof that you are unable to make your child support payments. If you lost your job, for instance, you’ll want to save all the proof that shows this.
With a child support modification, you won’t be required by law to pay as much each month. This can help improve your financial situation, while also eliminating some stress from your life.
If you have no choice but to consider a child support modification, learn more about your legal rights and the process of moving forward.