Modification requires a substantial and continuing change, frequently defined as a percentage variance from the current order. Modification is generally prospective only and does not affect accrued arrearages.
Some states permit review at defined intervals.
Alternative Names:
Support Modification|Change of Support
Why it Matters?
Retroactivity is limited to the filing date in most states, which means an obligor whose income dropped must file promptly rather than paying a reduced amount and seeking retroactive relief later, since the unpaid difference accrues as arrearages that modification cannot eliminate. That rule catches obligors who assumed informal agreement with the other parent was sufficient.
Frequently Confused with
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
How far back does modification reach?
Does informal agreement suffice?
