Modify Child Support - Minnesota Court Forms and Information

What is Child Support Modification?

Modification means changing an existing court order. Either parent can ask for a change in child support by filing a motion in court to modify their child support order.

When can I modify my child support order?

You can file a motion to modify at any time, but the court only sees certain things as reasons to modify a child support order.

A judge or magistrate needs to see if there has been a "substantial change" in the needs of the child or parents’ finances that makes the order you have unfair.

You may be able to get a modification if:

• There is a change of at least 20% in the gross income of the parent who pays the support
• There is a change in the number of joint children supported by the parent who pays the support
• A parent starts getting public assistance             
• There is a large change in child care costs
• There is a change in availability of medical or dental coverage
• A joint child becomes disabled
• Both parties agree to change (modify) the order