5 Reasons for Child Support Modification in San Antonio, TX

On Behalf of Kevin E. Sralla | November 15, 2024 | Blog

You have worked hard to make ends meet, prioritizing your child’s needs and paying child support under your current arrangement. But life can throw you a curveball. It might be a job change, unexpected medical bills, or your child suddenly needing more help. Or perhaps the other parent’s financial situation has drastically improved, and they’re now in a better position to contribute.

Are you having challenges keeping up with your current arrangement? Or do you believe the other parent’s support payments should be adjusted?

The “Buck” stops here. When circumstances change, so should your child support agreement. In this blog, our San Antonio child support attorney breaks down five common reasons that might qualify for a child support modification, starting with an income change.

1. Significant Change in Income and Child Support Obligations

Life is unpredictable, and financial obligations can change quickly. If you or the other parent has experienced a significant shift in income, it may be time to request a child support modification. This can include situations like:

• Job loss or a drastic reduction in hours
• Medical emergencies impacting your ability to work
• Sudden gains in income for the other parent

Texas child support guidelines are used to determine if a significant change in income warrants a modification. A substantial change—often defined as a 20 percent or $100 difference from the original child support order—may allow the courts to reassess and adjust child support obligations.

2. Medical Needs or Disabilities

Medical needs or disabilities are common child support issues that can lead to modifications. If a child develops medical needs or a disability, financial demands can increase significantly.

Texas courts may modify a child support order to help cover these additional expenses. Whether it’s ongoing therapy, medications, specialized equipment, or routine medical visits, a child’s well-being is the top priority. A modification ensures that both parents contribute fairly to any new, unforeseen costs related to their child’s health.

3. Change in Custody Arrangements

When child custody arrangements change, child support payments may need to be adjusted to reflect the new arrangement. For instance, if a parent who previously had limited custody now shares equal time, it may reduce the need for child support payments. On the flip side, a primary custodial parent change might mean a higher contribution from the noncustodial parent.

If you and the other parent reach a new custody agreement, you can request a modification to align with this updated arrangement. Consulting knowledgeable child support attorneys can help you navigate this process and pursue a fair outcome.

4. The Child’s Needs Have Changed

As children grow, their needs evolve, too. Determining child support involves considering these needs. Sometimes, the changes are positive, such as a child reaching independence sooner than expected. Other times, adjustments may be necessary to support activities like education, sports, or special interests.

Texas courts consider the child’s best interests as the guiding principle, and a modification might be possible if you can demonstrate that an increase (or decrease) in support would better meet those interests.

5. Parental Relocation

When a custodial parent moves out of San Antonio or farther away, it can complicate existing child support orders and custody arrangements. Relocating can impact the amount of time each parent spends with the child, and a modification may be required to align with the new arrangement.

Texas courts aim to keep a fair and balanced approach, so if relocation changes the distribution of time and financial responsibilities, modifying child support orders is often the preferred solution.

How Often Can Child Support Be Modified in Texas?

Texas law does not set a strict limit on the number of modifications you can request, but there are specific criteria for when these requests are considered. Typically, you can file for a review every three years or when a substantial change in circumstances occurs — whichever comes first.

You can modify child support payments if there are significant changes in the circumstances of the payor or payee or their children, such as changes in income, employment status, or health conditions.

It’s always a good idea to consult with a child support modification lawyer to evaluate if your circumstances qualify for a review. Keep in mind that modifications are meant to address significant life changes. The court aims to maintain stability for children, so they won’t grant modifications for small or temporary income changes.

Do You Need Child Support Modification in San Antonio, Texas?

Are you dealing with a sudden life change? Or do you simply need a better understanding of your options? Navigating child support modifications in San Antonio can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone.

At Sralla Family Law PLLC, we blend the might of large firm services with warmth and care, ensuring our clients receive compassionate, thorough guidance tailored to their unique situations. Our compassionate family law and divorce attorneys are here to be your San Antonio family law allies.

If you believe your situation calls for a child support modification, take the first step by contacting us at (210) 212-5656(210) 212-5656 or completing our confidential online form to schedule your free initial consultation.

We’re here to listen to your story, evaluate your circumstances, and work toward a solution that benefits your family.

Copyright © 2024. Sralla Family Law PLLC. All rights reserved.

The information in this blog post (“post”) is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information in this post should be construed as legal advice from the individual author or the law firm, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting based on any information included in or accessible through this post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient’s state, country, or other appropriate licensing jurisdiction.

Sralla Family Law PLLC
542 E. Highland Blvd.
San Antonio, Texas 78210
(210) 212-5656(210) 212-5656
https://www.familylawsanantonio.com/