Providing for your children is one of the most important parts of being a parent. Of course, parents must provide shelter, safety and emotional support, but they must also provide financial support.
That is why child support is such a critical detail to address when parents separate or divorce. However, as we have discussed in previous blog posts, it does not take much for your family’s life or finances to change. When changes happen in life, it might be necessary to make changes to child support.
How do you approach changing child support?
Parents looking to adjust their child support payments must file a form to request a modification. That is only the first step, as there may be a hearing to discuss the request and accept or deny the modifications.
Therefore, it is a good idea for parents to collect evidence to help their case. For example:
- Documentation of a lay-off or other job change
- Birth certificate of a new child requiring support
- Statements showing changes in financial standing
After all, there must be a reason for requesting a modification. Otherwise, North Carolina courts will not consider making adjustments to the original order or agreement. That is why it can help to have evidence depicting your circumstances, to support the reason for your request.
Remember: The kids still come first
Providing evidence can certainly help your case when requesting a child support modification. Even so, you must remember that child support calculations are a balance. The amount depends on the paying parent’s ability to pay and the child’s needs. So, it is also critical to review the financial needs of your child and ensure they will still be met if any modifications take effect.
Change happens. The family courts understand that which is why there is a system in place to modify child support agreements. It will help to ensure you understand that process in order to make your case for a modification.