Child support orders help provide the separating couple’s children with financial security and stability. While these orders are court-mandated, parents can still file a modification request of their child support costs if their circumstances change.
In this blog, we will discuss three commonly asked questions about child support modification processes in Iowa:
How can I update my child support order?
In Iowa, there are three types of modification processes that you or your ex may use to seek an increase or decrease in your child support costs. Depending on your specific circumstances, your modification process may be:
- Review and adjustment
- Administrative modification (ADMOD)
- Cost of living alteration (COLA)
Since the conditions for each type of modification process are different, the Iowa Child Support Services will decide which type suits your situation the best.
How does the ADMOD process work?
If your or your ex’s increase in net income is 50% or more and this increase is expected to last for at least three more months, you may request an update of your child support payments using ADMOD.
Keep in mind that your existing child support order must be less than 24 months old. Additionally, you need to provide proof of your or your ex’s old and current income, such as payroll stub copies or tax returns.
When can I receive my new child support amount?
If you have filed your adjusted order with the court, you will receive your new child support amount during your next regular payment “due date” after your filing date.
For example, your divorce decree has a child support “due date” scheduled at every 15th the month. If you filed your adjusted order on January 1st, your new support amount will begin on January 15th.
Your children will be okay
By learning about Iowa’s common child support modification questions and their answers, you can confidently proceed with your intended request while following the proper legal process involved.