Child Support Modification in Florida

The basis for a child support modification in Florida starts with there being a substantial change of circumstances since the entry of the Final Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage (or from the entry of the last order addressing child support).

Child support modification in Florida to decrease
Here is a list of some of the factors that may serve as the basis for a child support modification in Florida to lower child support…

Paying party’s loss of a job
Paying party’s loss of income
Receiving party making more money
Children’s expenses decreasing (i.e. no more daycare)

Child support modification in Florida to increase
Here is a list of some of the factors that may serve as the basis for a child support modification in Florida to increase child support…

Receiving party’s loss of a job
Receiving party’s loss of income
Paying party making more money
Children’s expenses increasing

If the Court does find that there has been a substantial change in circumstances, then the child support guidelines will come into play in determining the new child support amount.

Child support modification in Florida – guideline amount
The child support guidelines may serve as the basis to support a substantial change of circumstance. Section 61.30 (1)(b) states as follows: “The guidelines may provide the basis for proving a substantial change in circumstances upon which a modification of an existing order may be granted. However, the difference between the existing monthly obligation and the amount provided for under the guidelines shall be at least 15 percent or $50, whichever amount is greater, before the court may find that the guidelines provide a substantial change in circumstances.”