When a parent is ordered to pay child support, sometimes situations arise where it’s necessary for it to be changed. This is called a child support modification and is commonly requested when the parent who is ordered to pay the support has a change in income. The parent must continue to pay the child support until the order is modified.
Modification process
In Illinois, child support orders are issued through either an administrative or a judicial process. Judicial child support orders are modified through the court.
Administrative child support orders are reviewed when there is a substantial change in circumstances, at least three years have passed since the order was entered, the order does not address the child’s health care coverage or either parent requests a written review of the order.
If a parent makes a request for a modification, he or she will receive a notification about whether their order qualifies for a change. In Illinois, this usually occurs within 30 days of the request. Parents may be asked to submit income verification documents.
Substantial change in circumstances
A substantial change in circumstances depends on each situation, however usually includes increases in the child’s cost of living or needs, increases or decreases in the parent’s ability to pay the support, changes in parenting time or custody arrangements or when the child is emancipated. The child support amount can increase or decrease.
It’s important for parents to meet their financial obligations to provide for their children. If a parent has questions about child support or modifications, an experienced attorney can help.