If either parent loses a job or is earning more money, will child support automatically be changed?
Answer
No, the child support amount will not change automatically; however, either parent can request a review and adjustment of their child support order. A child support obligation must be reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, at least every 36 months, or sooner if there has been a substantial change in circumstances such as reduced income of the obligated parent.
Check with your caseworker to see if your child support obligation is in line with state guidelines, and ask how to request a review.
Some courts and child support offices partner with employment programs and other agencies to provide employment services to noncustodial parents who are struggling to make ends meet and support their children. Again, contact your local child support office.
To contact your local office, click on your state on the child support contact map to find your state or tribal website. Your state or tribal website provides contact information for your local child support office.
Last Reviewed: July 20, 2016
