Under Illinois’ child support laws, parents and legal guardians of children can request for an increase or decrease in their child support amount to accommodate a recent change in their circumstances. This modification aims to provide the parents and legal guardians with fairness and better adaptability as they navigate through their new situation.
When can I request a modification?
Either parent or legal guardian who experiences a substantial change in their job or family’s circumstances can file for an adjustment to their child support costs. Seven common reasons include:
- When one parent receives a promotion in their job
- When one parent gets a pay cut
- When one parent is laid off from their job
- When one parent becomes disabled
- When there is a change in custody order
- When there is an addition to either parent’s family
- When there are higher expenses relating to the child’s medical or educational needs
However, it is important to note that you will need to include proof of your recent change of circumstances for it to be eligible for review and modification.
How can I submit my request for modification?
There are two ways to file your request for child support modification. The first method involves submitting a petition to the circuit court where your original child support order was issued. Your document must include valid reasons for the change, as well as supporting evidence relevant to your request. Some common examples include tax returns, recent pay stubs or proof of unemployment.
The second method can be accomplished online through the state’s ‘Easy Form’ program. The form will take around 20 to 30 minutes to complete and asks a series of questions that you will need to fill up and answer. Upon completion, you will receive a copy of the court forms with instructions on the next steps.
Do I need a lawyer?
Although requesting for a child support modification does not mandate legal representation, a family law attorney can help provide you with valuable guidance to the process. They can verify if your documents have been filled out correctly and let you know if you are missing any supporting evidence. They can also help strengthen your case by executing a tailored plan for your situation.
By understanding how Illinois’ child support modifications work, you can proceed with the process with confidence and adjust to your recent change of circumstances with better flexibility.
