How to Increase Child Support Payments
Receiving child support in a fair amount is important in any divorce or child paternity case. As time goes along, however, circumstances may change that affect the amount of child support to be paid. Within the child support agreement, there are steps that can be taken to increase the payment amount.
Before considering asking for an increase, though, it is important to understand the process to increase payment under Georgia law, along with the reasons that an increase would be justified. By following the right steps, it can be easier and faster to have a decision made in your case, so your child support payments can be increased.
Child Support Services Child Support Modification
Reasons to Increase Child Support
When circumstances change for the parent who pays child support, it may mean that an increase in the level of support should take place. If you are wondering how to increase child support, and whether the other parent’s circumstances have changed enough to do so, proper legal representation can help you address that concern.
Generally, changes in circumstances that can cause child support to be increased include:
- A new job
- A significant promotion or salary increase
- A more unique way of coming into a large amount of money, such as a lottery win or a big inheritance
These changes do not guarantee an automatic increase, though. If you’ve searched online for how to ask for an increase in child support but have not found the answers you need, Stearns-Montgomery & Proctor can provide the assistance and guidance you need to move through this process.
How Long Does it Take to Modify Child Support Payments?
When you file to increase child support, the process may take as long as six months to complete. Income and assets for both parties (you and the other parent) will need to be verified, and if the other parent lives out of state the process can become more complicated and time-consuming, as well. That is also true if the original order for child support was created in another state, but you now live in Georgia.
How long ago the child support order was issued, whether it was issued in Georgia, and where both parents are now living all affect how long the modification may take. But you do not need to worry about tackling the issue alone or chasing down the information you need to apply for an increase in child support payments. With help on your side, the process may be smoother and less stressful for everyone.
A search for how to file for increase in child support provides a lot of results, but the specific answers about your individual case may be more complicated than that. By reaching out to us today at Stearns-Montgomery & Proctor, you can start down the path of asking for a child support increase. We are here to help you get the information you need and work toward a successful resolution of your child support issues. If the other parent’s circumstances have changed significantly, you may be entitled to additional funds every month that will help you provide more for your child.
