ife doesn’t stand still after divorce.
Maybe you got laid off. Maybe you landed a big promotion. Maybe your ex started a new job that pays more.
If child support is part of your parenting plan, you’re probably wondering:
“Does this change what I pay or receive?”
The answer is: It might. And if it does, Georgia law gives you a way to update your child support order legally—so you’re not overpaying, underpaying, or breaking the law.
Let’s walk through how it works.
First: What Does the Court Care About?
In Georgia, child support is based mainly on:
The combined income of both parents
Who pays for things like health insurance and childcare
Parenting time—how often the child is with each parent
If either parent’s income changes substantially, the court may agree it’s time to recalculate support.
What Counts as an Income Change?
Not every little change triggers a new order. But here are situations that often do:
- You lose your job (and can’t quickly replace the income)
- You get a significant raise or promotion
- You start a new job that pays much less
- You switch to part-time work (or full-time work)
- You retire or go on disability
- Your ex experiences one of these changes
The court looks for “substantial and ongoing” change—not just a temporary shift.
How Do You Update Child Support?
You can’t just shake hands and agree to a new amount with your ex.
Even if both of you agree to adjust it, the order must be changed by the court to be enforceable.
Here’s what the process looks like:
- File a Petition for Modification of Child Support
You’ll ask the court to officially review your case. - Show proof of your new income
Pay stubs, tax returns, termination letters—whatever applies. - Attend a hearing (if required)
The judge will review the facts and may order an updated support amount. - Receive a new court order
Only after this step is your payment legally changed.
What If You Just Stop Paying the Original Amount?
🚩 Big mistake.
If you stop paying, lower the amount on your own, or delay payments without going through the court, you can face:
- Contempt of court
- Wage garnishment
- License suspension
- Jail time, in severe cases
Even if your income drop is real and significant, you need court approval first.
How Often Can You Modify Child Support in Georgia?
- Once every two years by default
- Anytime there is a substantial change in income
- Anytime there is a substantial change in a child’s needs
📌 Example: If your child develops new medical needs or special educational expenses, that can trigger a modification too.
What If You’re Receiving Support?
Modifications work both ways.
If you’re the parent receiving child support and the paying parent now earns more (and your child’s needs have increased), you can also petition for an increase.
Likewise, if you suspect they’re hiding income or not reporting a raise, legal help can uncover that and request a new, fair order.
How We Help Parents Through the Process
At Catherine Ryan Law, we:
- Review whether your income change qualifies for modification
- Help you gather the right proof
- Handle court filings and paperwork
- Represent you at hearings if needed
- Make sure any new order is legally binding—so there’s no confusion or risk down the road
You shouldn’t have to navigate this alone—or stay locked into an order that no longer fits your reality.
Your Life Changed. Your Support Order Can, Too.
If your income—or your child’s needs—have changed, let’s talk about your options.
Protect yourself legally, avoid court penalties, and get a support order that reflects today’s reality.
Click here to schedule your consultation with Catherine Ryan
We’ll help you move forward with clarity and confidence.