Child support can be changed, but you have to follow California’s legal process
Parents in California can request a change in child support when their financial or caregiving circumstances shift. But you can’t just agree on a new amount and move on. You need to file the necessary paperwork and follow the court’s procedure.
This guide breaks it down: what forms to file, how to write your request, and what to expect next.
If you need help with deadlines or legal strategy, Bay Area Law Group helps parents across San Francisco and the Bay Area move forward confidently.
When Child Support Can Be Modified in California
Courts allow modifications when there has been a significant change. The law calls this a “change in circumstances.” Here are some examples:
- One parent loses their job
- A new job increases income significantly
- Parenting time shifts
- A child develops new medical or educational needs
If any of those apply, you may have grounds to file. Both parents have the right to request a change, but the court must approve it. Verbal agreements between parents do not override the court order. You’ll need an official ruling to update the terms. (1)
Required Forms for California Child Support Modification
The process starts with paperwork. Here’s what you’ll need:
- FL-300: Request for Order — Tells the court what change you want and why
- FL-150: Income and Expense Declaration — Shows your current income, expenses, and financial situation
- FL-155 or FL-105 — Used if you’re filing without other family law actions or need to update custody information
- FL-334: Proof of Service by Mail — Confirms that you served the other parent correctly
You must file these forms in the same court that issued the original order. Courts won’t accept incomplete or improperly served documents. Mistakes lead to delays or dismissal. A family law attorney can help you file quickly and accurately.
How to Write a Strong Request for Modification
The FL-300 includes space for a written declaration. This is where you explain what changed and why support needs to be adjusted. Be specific. Courts don’t want emotional pleas. They want facts.
Write it like this: “Since the last order, I lost my full-time job. My new income is 40% lower. I have included current pay stubs, tax returns, and unemployment records.”
Support your claims with documents. Add proof of income, a parenting calendar, or medical bills. The more detail, the easier it is for the judge to understand your request.
What Happens After You File Your Request
Once you submit your forms, the court will schedule a hearing. You’ll receive a court date and must serve the other parent with copies of your paperwork. They must receive everything well in advance.
At the hearing, both parents present evidence. The judge will review financial documents, parenting schedules, and arguments from each side. You must show that the change is both real and significant.
Be prepared. Bring original copies of documents, including proof of income and childcare expenses. Stay focused on facts, not emotions. Judges look at numbers, patterns, and timing.
If approved, the new order replaces the old one. If denied, the current child support amount stays in place until a valid change occurs.
How to Strengthen Your Case in Court
Judges expect preparation. Bring documents that back up your claims. Include recent pay stubs, termination letters, custody calendars, and medical or school records if needed.
Practice your statement. Keep it short, factual, and easy to follow. Avoid blaming or attacking the other parent. Focus on your child’s needs and your current reality.
If you received less parenting time recently, show documentation. If your income dropped, bring clear numbers. If you had an unexpected expense, show the receipts.
The stronger your supporting evidence, the more likely the court will take your request seriously. If you’re unsure how to present your case, a local attorney can guide you.
Can You Modify Support Without Going to Court?
Some parents try to change support through informal agreements, but these carry risk. Even if both parties agree, the court will not recognize the change unless it is filed and approved.
If you want to avoid a court hearing, you can try mediation. A judge will still need to sign off, but the process may go faster.
For child support to be legally enforceable, it must be part of a court order. Always file the modification properly to protect your rights and avoid future disputes.
When to Hire a Child Support Lawyer
You don’t need a lawyer to file, but legal support can make a real difference. An attorney helps you avoid mistakes, meet deadlines, and focus your argument on what matters most to the court.
If the other parent has a lawyer, or if your situation involves complex finances or disputed parenting time, legal guidance is especially helpful. The stakes are high. A knowledgeable family law attorney can give you clarity and confidence at every step.
Bay Area Law Group works with parents across San Francisco and nearby counties. We help you take the next step with confidence.
Reference:
CHANGING A CHILD SUPPORT AMOUNT, CA Child Support Services,
https://childsupport.ca.gov/overview/modify-my-payment/
