- The Florida courts can order one parent to pay child support to assist the other parent in meeting the needs of the child, but both parents are expected to provide financial support. Florida has guidelines that use the combined income of both parents for the initial calculation. Then the financial contributions of the custodial parent are subtracted to determine how much is still needed, which becomes the child support amount. Because income is the major determinant of child support, a change in income can necessitate a change in the amount of child support.
- To change the child support amount permanently, you must be able to show that a change is necessary and in the best interest of the child. If a parent's income changes or a parent loses a job, courts may award a modification. If a parent becomes disabled or the needs of the child change, a change in the agreement might be awarded. Also changes in the child support laws might require a change to the agreement. The changes must be substantial in order to be considered.
- Sometimes one parent might need the agreement to be changed for a period of time but not permanently. Reasons for temporary changes can include: 1) a medical emergency for the child; 2) a temporary inability to pay due to job loss or illness; or 3) a temporary hardship experienced by the custodial parent.
- The Florida state government lists only three reasons that a parent should request a change. These are: 1) if a child's name needs to be added or removed from the order; 2) if the time that you need to pay support is extended; or 3) if you need to include or remove medical support from the order. While the state acknowledges other reasons exist for a modification, these are the ones deemed important.
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