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    Modify Existing Child Support Orders

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    Division of Child Support Services

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    Modify Existing Child Support Orders

    Sometimes, life circumstances change—and when they do, you may need to request a change to your existing child support order. The Division of Child Support Services (DCSS) can help you file a petition with the Family Court of the State of Delaware to request a modification. You can also request help enforcing an existing order if child support isn’t being paid as ordered.

    When Can You Request a Modification?

    You may file a petition to modify a child support order if either of the following applies:

    • It has been at least 2.5 years since the last child support order was entered, OR
    • There has been a substantial change in circumstances, such as:
      • Job loss or change in income
      • A change in custody or household size
      • Changes in health insurance coverage or expenses

    Note: Even if it’s been less than 2.5 years, Family Court may accept your petition if the change is significant.

    What Happens After You File?

    Once a petition for modification is filed:

    1. Mediation is scheduled first.
      You’ll work with the other parent and a mediator to try and reach an agreement.
    2. If no agreement is reached, a hearing will be scheduled before a Family Court Commissioner.
    3. The child support amount will be recalculated using the Delaware Child Support Calculator.

    A new order will only be issued if the formula results in a 10% or greater change (increase or decrease) from your current order.

    What If Support Payments Aren’t Being Made?

    If the other parent isn’t paying child support as ordered, you can request enforcement:

    • DCSS can file a petition for enforcement with Family Court.
    • The first enforcement petition usually goes to mediation.
    • If the problem continues, future petitions will be assigned to a Family Court Commissioner or Judge for resolution.

    Need Help?

    If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible to file or need help starting the process, reach out to your DCSS caseworker or call us at (302) 577-7171, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

    You can also log in to the DCSS Customer Portal to:

    • View your current child support order
    • Message your caseworker
    • Submit updated income or employment details