Child Support Modification in Florida: What You Need to Know

Child support orders are not always permanent. Life changes — jobs are lost or gained, incomes go up or down, children’s needs change, and parenting schedules shift. When these changes happen, Florida law allows parents to request a modification of child support under certain circumstances.

This guide explains when child support can be modified, what qualifies as a substantial change, and how the process works in Florida.

What Is a Child Support Modification?

A child support modification is a legal request to increase, decrease, or otherwise change an existing child support order. The request must be approved by a judge — parents cannot simply agree to change the amount without court approval.

Once modified, the new amount replaces the prior order and becomes legally enforceable.

When Can Child Support Be Modified in Florida?

Florida courts require a substantial, material, involuntary, and permanent change in circumstances before modifying child support. Common qualifying reasons include:

• A significant increase or decrease in income

• Job loss, layoffs, or reduction in work hours (not voluntary)

• A parent becoming disabled or seriously ill

• Changes in the child’s medical, educational, or special needs

• A change in the parenting plan or timesharing schedule

• A child turning 18 or becoming emancipated

• A substantial increase in daycare or health insurance costs

As a general rule, if the recalculated child support amount changes by 15% or $50 (whichever is greater), the court may consider it substantial.

What If the Parents Were Never Married?

Parents do not need to have been married for child support to be modified. As long as there is an existing court order establishing child support, either parent may request a modification.

Can Parents Agree to Modify Child Support?

Parents may reach an agreement, but the court must still approve it. Until a judge signs a new order, the original child support amount remains legally binding — even if both parents agree informally.

What Forms Are Required?

While each case is unique, a typical child support modification filing may include:

• Supplemental Petition for Modification of Child Support

• Family Law Financial Affidavit

• Child Support Guidelines Worksheet

• Certificate of Compliance with Mandatory Disclosure

• Parenting Plan (if timesharing is also changing)

• Notice of Social Security Number (confidential filing)

Local county requirements may vary, and incorrect or missing paperwork can delay your case.

Does Child Support Automatically Change?

No. Child support does not automatically adjust when income changes or a child turns 18. A formal request must be filed with the court. Until a new order is entered, support continues under the existing order.

How Long Does the Process Take?

Timeframes vary by county and case complexity. Some uncontested modifications may resolve within a few months, while contested cases can take longer, especially if a hearing is required.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting too long to file after a change occurs

• Assuming verbal agreements are enforceable

• Filing incomplete or incorrect forms

• Not updating financial affidavits accurately

• Failing to properly serve the other party

These mistakes can lead to delays, denials, or enforcement actions.

Need Help Preparing Your Child Support Modification?

Preparing child support modification paperwork can be overwhelming, especially when finances and children are involved. Accurate forms and proper filing matter.

At Marion County Legal Docs, we assist with:

• Child support

• Financial affidavits and worksheets

• Parenting plan updates

• Court-ready document preparation

We are not attorneys and do not provide legal advice, but we help ensure your paperwork is properly prepared and organized for filing.

📞 Contact us today to get started. 352-537-8357

This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.