When to increase child support?

Mkherren12

I'm looking for your thoughts on when it is ok or acceptable to petition for a child support increase. I've heard both sides but would like to get more opinions. Please share!

+just+j+

Generally there is a waiting period. I divorced in March of 2013. I cannot file until March of 2015 - 2 years.  My ex would also have to have a pay increase in that time, which he currently does. I am preparing to file for more CS and filing to follow up on a couple of violations in our CO that he has not fulfilled yet at that time.

I would choose wisely when you pursue a raise in CS.  Make sure you are not just filing just to file and get more money. Make sure there is an increase in pay and that it is to your benefit to do so at the time of filing. 

twister22

Honestly I would just follow your state/county's guidelines. I.e. if it says it's acceptable when it's been 2 years since the last filing or that it's acceptable when one party has a 10% pay increase/decrease then I would go ahead and file if that's what you want to do. Also, I would see if your state/county has an online calculator so you can see what you're getting into.

Mkherren12

Thank you all. Yes my state will let me increase every 3 years. I guess I was looking more for if you all would automatically increase when that time frame was up or if you had a reason to increase. My husband and I don't really need the money but we do have expenses that we pay for monthly for dd that her dad does not help with (dd is special needs). In fact she hasn't seen him in 6 months.

One side of me says this is his daughter and he should be taking care of her. If he got a raise then he should have notified cs and offered part to dd.

Then the other says that my husband and I make good finical decisions so that we are not in a bind and can well provide for dd. Where as her dad doesn't and lives pay check to pay check and increasing cs could hurt him more.

acbarbour

I dont have any advice but I have considered looking into a child support increase.  I am glad to see that questions and thank you ladies for the responses.

circe811

Follow the guidelines of your area. Has it been a long time since its been reviewed? Has your child reached a new age bracket? Etc. Also, keep in mind that it could also be lowered when asking for a modification!