How to Reduce Your Child Support Payments in California Without an Attorney

Child support orders are designed to ensure children’s needs are met, but life circumstances can change. If your financial situation has shifted and you need to reduce your child support payments, California law provides options through family court or the Child Support Services Department (CSSD). Here’s what you can do, even without an attorney.

When a Judge Has Already Issued a Child Support Order

If a family law judge has already made a child support order, you must file a Request for Order (RFO) to Modify Child Support to request a reduction.

Steps to Take in Family Court

1. Determine Your Reason for Modification:
   Courts require a significant change in circumstances to consider reducing child support. Examples include:
   • Job loss or reduced income.
   • Increased custody time.
   • Increased expenses (e.g., medical bills).
   • A change in the other parent’s income.
2. Complete the Necessary Forms:
   • Request for Order (FL-300): Use this form to ask the court to modify child support.
   • Income and Expense Declaration (FL-150): Provide updated financial information.
3. File the Forms with the Court:
   • Submit your completed forms to the court clerk and pay the filing fee (fee waivers are available if you cannot afford it).
   • The clerk will give you a hearing date.
4. Serve the Other Parent:
   • Have someone over 18 (not you) serve the other parent with the filed forms.
   • Complete a Proof of Service (FL-330 or FL-335) and file it with the court.
5. Attend the Hearing:
   • Bring all relevant documents, such as pay stubs, tax returns, and proof of expenses.
   • Be prepared to explain why your financial situation has changed and why a reduction is necessary.

What the Judge Will Consider:

The court will look at:

• Both parents’ current incomes.
• The amount of time each parent spends with the child (custody and visitation).
• The needs of the child.

If You Are Working with the Child Support Services Department (CSSD)

If your case is handled through CSSD, you can request a modification review directly with their office.

Steps to Modify Through CSSD

1. Contact CSSD:
   • Call your local CSSD office or log into their online portal to request a modification review.
   • Explain the change in your financial situation.
2. Provide Updated Financial Information:
   • Submit recent pay stubs, tax returns, and other documents showing your current income and expenses.
   • Include any changes in custody or visitation schedules.
3. Attend the CSSD Review:
   • CSSD will review the information and determine if the child support amount should be adjusted.
   • If CSSD agrees to a change, they may submit a stipulation (agreement) to the court for approval without a hearing.
4. File a Motion if Necessary:
   • If CSSD does not agree to a modification, you can file a Request for Order (FL-300) with the court yourself.

Key Considerations for Both Options

1. Gather Supporting Evidence:
   • Pay stubs, tax returns, and proof of unemployment or reduced income.
   • Receipts for increased expenses (e.g., medical bills, child care).
   • Documentation of custody changes (e.g., new visitation schedules).
2. Act Quickly:
   • Child support reductions are not retroactive to the date of your financial change. They typically take effect from the date you file your request.
3. Stay Current on Payments:
   • Continue paying your current child support amount until the court or CSSD changes the order. Falling behind can lead to arrears (back payments) and penalties.
4. Fee Waivers Are Available:
   • If you cannot afford court filing fees, complete a Request to Waive Court Fees (FW-001) and submit it with your other forms.

What to Do If the Other Parent Disagrees

• If the other parent opposes your request, they may file a response and provide evidence to support keeping the current order.
• The court will weigh both sides and make a decision based on California’s child support guidelines.

Additional Tips for Filing Without an Attorney

1. Use Self-Help Resources:
   • Many California courts have self-help centers or online guides to assist with completing forms and understanding the process.
2. Keep Communication Professional:
   • Avoid emotional or combative language when communicating with the other parent or CSSD.
3. Be Prepared for Delays:
   • Modifications can take weeks or months to process, so plan accordingly.

Conclusion

Whether your case is handled through family court or the Child Support Services Department, you have options to request a reduction in child support. By acting quickly, providing accurate financial information, and staying organized, you can navigate the process effectively without an attorney.

For additional resources, visit your local court’s website or contact your county’s CSSD office.

 

 

…
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. For personalized legal guidance on third-party insurance claims or related matters, consult with a qualified attorney familiar with the law in your jurisdiction.