Modifying Child Support When a Parent Loses Their Job

Job Loss Does Not Stop Child Support

Many, many people have lost their jobs, or had their hours cut due to Covid-19. Prescott Tax & Paralegal wants you to know that the responsibility to pay child support does not magically disappear if you lose your job, or earn less. To change child support, you must file a request with the court that entered the last order.

Online Tool Available to Calculate Child Support

Usually, the first step in changing a child support order is to prepare a Child Support Worksheet. The Arizona Supreme Court has an online Child Support Calculator to help prepare this worksheet. Check the Arizona Child Support Guidelines to determine what the court considers income in your circumstances.

Do you Qualify for the Simplified Method?

When the Child Support Worksheet is completed, look at the resulting child support amount. Find the difference between the new child support amount and the old child support amount. (Old amount minus new amount.) Then divide this result by the old amount of child support. If the answer is .15 or more, you will usually qualify for the simplified method of changing child support.

Prepare the Court Forms and File

There are court forms and instructions available online for the Yavapai County Simplified Method of Changing Child Support. The court charges a fee for filing this paperwork. You must attach your last 2 pay stubs, or other proof of change in income, such as the letter from unemployment stating what your weekly benefit will be.

When You Need Help Preparing Court Forms

If you are unable to prepare the court forms, and need help, Community Legal Services provides low or no cost help for many legal issues. Prescott Tax & Paralegal can also provide help for a fee.