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How to Modify a Child Support Order

A smiling woman is holding up puppets made of popsicle sticks in front of a child.

What is a modification?

A modification is a review of an existing child support court order. The action taken can be an upward change in the child support award, a downward change in the child support award, or no change at all.

For what reasons could someone request a modification?

  • The medical insurance coverage is changing, either by the amount or which party (payor or receiver) is providing it.
  • The order is more than three years old.
  • There has been a substantial and continuous change in circumstances, such as change of income or change in custody.

What do you need to request a modification of your child support order?

The child support order needs to be registered in the State of Arizona or registered into an Arizona court’s docket.

A completed modification packet, which includes:

  • The Affidavit of Financial Information
  • Acceptance of service by mail
  • Modification review notice

Financial information, may include:

  • The two most recent pay stubs
  • W2 statements and 1099 forms from all sources of income
  • Profit and loss statements
  • Tax returns for the last three years

Records of child support for other children:

  • Birth certificates of other biological children in the home
  • Payment histories of child support orders for other children

Records of medical insurance cost or coverage:

  • Copies of pay stubs or payments that show who is covered by the policy

Day care expenses:

  • Payment histories or receipts from the child care provider

What should I keep in mind when requesting a modification?

  • The review may result in an increase, decrease, or no change in the child support order, depending on the current circumstances of both parents. Generally, the process will continue regardless of whether it will result in an increase or decrease.
  • The Division of Child Support Services (DCSS) conducts reviews for modifications in accordance with the Arizona Child Support Guidelines.
  • The process may take up to six months for review and a finalized modification order.

Ready to ask for a modification?

Visit the Division of Child Support Services website to find the forms.

If you have questions or need assistance, contact DCSS Customer Service at 1-800-882-4151 or 602-252-4045, or visit your local DCSS office.

December 11, 2024
Bettina Adragna
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