Modifying Child Support in Florida: When & How You Can Request a Change
Life circumstances change, and Florida law recognizes that child support may need to change too. Whether you’re seeking a decrease due to job loss or an increase due to rising childcare costs, understanding the modification process is essential.
When Can You Modify Child Support in Florida?
Florida law allows modification when there is a substantial, permanent, and involuntary change in circumstances. Common qualifying reasons include:
1. Significant Change in Income
- Job loss or reduction in hours
- Disability
- New employment with substantially lower pay
2. Increased Child Expenses
- Medical needs
- Therapy or counseling
- Daycare or extracurricular activities
3. Change in Timesharing
More or fewer overnights can alter child support under Florida’s guidelines.
4. Change in Healthcare Costs
Insurance premiums and uncovered expenses impact support calculations.
How to Request a Modification
The process requires filing a supplemental petition and providing updated financial documentation.
Steps Include:
- Filing a Supplemental Petition to Modify Child Support
- Serving the other parent
- Exchanging financial affidavits
- Mediation (if required)
- Court hearing if no agreement is reached
What You Must Prove
The change must be:
- Substantial (typically 15% or $50 difference)
- Permanent (at least 6 months duration)
- Involuntary (not quitting a job to reduce support)
Common Challenges
Courts scrutinize claims closely. Voluntary income reduction or hidden assets may result in denied modifications.
Child support should reflect your real circumstances—not outdated numbers that no longer make sense. Whether you need to increase support, decrease payments, or enforce an existing order, McGuire Law Offices provides strategic, results-driven representation to protect your financial stability and your child’s well-being. If your circumstances have changed, take action now. Call McGuire Law Offices at 727-446-7659 to discuss your Florida child support modification options.