How to Get Child Support Payments Reduced
- 1). Review your finances. To apply for a child support reduction, you will need to prove that paying your child support obligation is harming you financially. Check to see if there are any unnecessary expenses that can be eliminated to lessen your financial burden. If the judge feels you are able to make your current child support payment by eliminating the extras, your request to lower child support payments will be denied.
- 2). Gather your financial documents. The judge will need to see your bank statements, pay stubs, income tax return, W-2 forms and bill copies. Have these documents prepared. If you are requesting a reduction due to loss of employment, provide a letter from your former employer or copy of your unemployment application. If you have increased expenses, provide medical bills.
- 3). Obtain the proper form to file a motion to modify or change the child support order. The form can be found at your local family courthouse or state child support office.
- 4). Complete the form. You will need to list your current gross income and any additional forms of income such as income from rental properties or interest from investments. Include all expenses and a copy of your state's child support worksheet. The worksheet is used as a general guideline for determining support. List as much information as possible regarding the custodial parent's income. You must also complete a financial affidavit. All paperwork must be completed. Include copies of the financial documents you gathered.
- 5). File the motion at the family courthouse where your original child support hearing was held. You will need to pay the appropriate fee based on your jurisdiction. The custodial parent will be served a copy of your motion. She will have a chance to file a written response.
- 6). Wait for the hearing. If there are sufficient evidence to back your reduction request, a hearing will be scheduled. Both parties must attend the hearing. If the motion is approved, the new child support orders will be effective immediately. The judge will determine whether the reduction is temporary or permanent.
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