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Specialty tag(s): Modifying Child Support, Child Support

How to Modify Child Support in Texas and Reasons Why You Should

Carlos E. Gracia | November 30, 2023

During a separation or divorce, child support agreements are put in place to ensure the financial well-being of the children involved. However, circumstances and needs change over time, leading to the need for modifications in child support agreements.

How Do You Modify Child Support in Texas?

When you work with a lawyer to modify a child support agreement in Texas, you’ll likely take the following steps:

1. Evaluate the Original Agreement: Review the current child support agreement to make sure that you thoroughly understand the terms and obligations.
2. Identify Valid Reasons for Modification: Assess whether there has been a significant change in circumstances since the original agreement was established that could justify making a change to the current child support order.
3. Consult an Experienced Divorce Attorney: A skilled attorney can help you determine whether your situation qualifies for a modification request and understand the next steps you’ll need to take. Together, you and your attorney will prepare the necessary legal documents to petition for a modification.
4. File a Request for Modification: Submit the documents to the appropriate court along with any supporting evidence that justifies the need for a modification. A divorce attorney is crucial to this process because it is important to adhere to the specific guidelines and deadlines set by the Texas court system.

How Often Can Child Support Be Modified?

In Texas, a child support agreement can be modified three years after it was put into place or last modified.

What Are Valid Reasons to Modify Child Support in Texas?

Child support can be modified for a few different reasons:

• There has been a substantial change in circumstances for one or both parties, as defined by the Texas Family Code. Examples include a significant increase or decrease in income, the loss of a job, changes in health insurance coverage, changes in the child’s custody arrangement, or changes in the child’s medical or educational needs.
• The current child support order differs by either 20% or $100 from what would be awarded according to the state’s child support guidelines.
• Both parents reach an agreement regarding child support modifications outside of court.

Get Help With Your Child Support Modification Today

When you need an experienced family law attorney to guide you through the process of modifying a child support agreement, Goranson Bain Ausley is here to help. Contact us for a consultation and let us help you secure a fair outcome for your case.

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A zealous advocate for clients as they face some of the most challenging times of their lives, Carlos Gracia provides an empathetic and strategic approach to helping clients achieve an optimal outcome in their family law or divorce matter. He listens deeply to clients’ concerns, fears, and goals and works in partnership with clients to create a plan for achieving what is most important.

If you have questions about modifying child support in Texas, please get in touch with Carlos Gracia at GBA’s Austin Family Law Office.