10 Invalid Reasons for a Child Support Increase
When an ex-spouse is trying to secure more money in child support, they need to have a valid reason. If you have received a request for an increase, connect with a Port St. Lucie family law attorney. It may be possible to push back against an unfair or unnecessary increase.
#1 Increased Personal Expenses
Your ex-spouse may claim that rising personal expenses justify a child support increase, but the payments are intended to cover the needs of the child, not to accommodate the parent’s financial decisions or lifestyle changes.
#2 Voluntary Income Reduction
If your ex voluntarily quits their job or reduces their working hours, this typically isn’t grounds for a child support increase. Courts generally expect both parents to maintain employment at their capacity to support the child.
#3 Unrelated Debts
A claim that your ex has accumulated personal debt, such as credit card bills or loans, is not a valid reason for requesting higher child support payments. The focus of child support is on the child’s welfare.
#4 New Relationships
Entering a new relationship does not provide a legitimate basis for increasing child support. A parent’s new partner’s income or financial situation should not lead to an increase in support payments.
#5 Parent’s Desire to Save for the Child’s College
While saving for a child’s future education is important, this is not typically considered a valid reason for a bump in support amounts. Child support primarily covers present needs rather than future expenses.
#6 Desire to Match Another’s Support Amount
Your ex might feel like they should receive more support if they know of someone in a similar situation receiving higher payments, but child support is based on the specific financial situation, not comparisons to others.
#7 Cost of New Activities
While extracurricular activities like sports or music lessons can enrich a child’s life, they are not usually considered a necessity. Courts typically prioritize basic needs like housing, education, and healthcare over additional activities when determining support.
#8 Child Wants Expensive Items
If your child desires costly items like the latest gadgets, designer clothes, or vacations, this is not a valid reason for a child support increase. Child support is intended to cover necessities, not luxury items.
#9 Sudden Lifestyle Change
Should an ex-spouse decide to live a more luxurious lifestyle, they may want to align the support payments to match, but this will not usually be upheld by the court. The child’s basic needs must remain the focus, not the parent’s desire for an upgraded standard of living.
#10 Unrealistic Budgeting
Poor financial management can lead to a parent feeling overwhelmed by expenses. If your ex has mismanaged their budget or overspent, this is not a valid reason for increasing financial obligations. Courts expect parents to live within their means and prioritize their child’s needs.
Should you discuss an unreasonable request for a child support increase with an attorney? Reach out for professional support today to protect your rights, talk to the legal team at Baginski, Brandt & Brandt about your unique situation. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation.
