Parents who want to adjust the amount of child support that they pay or receive can petition the court for child support modification in Colorado. However, there are only limited situations when such action is appropriate. Four situations that call for child support modification in Colorado include:
Child Changes Residence
Child support is premised on the idea that the funds are used to support the child. Therefore, if the child moves from the recipient parent’s home to the support providing parent’s home, the child support order can be modified to reflect this change.
Significant Change in Income
Another common reason why a child support order may be modified is if either parent has a significant change in income. In order for a modification to be ordered, the change must be substantial and continuing. Additionally, the change in income must be such that it will cause the amount of child support to change in either direction by at least ten percent. For example, if child support is $200 a month, it can be modified if the support ordered will increase or decrease by $20 a month.
Significant Change in Child-Related Expenses
Another reason why a child support order may be modified is if there is a significant change in expenses related to the child. For example, if parents were previously paying hundreds of dollars a month in daycare expenses and the child is now in school, the support order may be modified.
Medical Coverage Change
If a change related to the child’s medical coverage is necessary, the support order can be changed. This may occur when a parent requests that health insurance is added to the child support order.