Can child support payments be reduced or suspended?

Yes, certain circumstances can cause child support payments to be reduced or suspended in the state of Massachusetts. In most cases, a court order must be obtained in order to make a change to the child support order. A request to reduce or suspend the payments can be made if it can be shown that there has been a “change of circumstances” that would make the existing order unfair or unjust. Examples of changes in circumstances that could be taken into consideration to reduce or suspend payments include: a significant decrease in the parent’s income; the child no longer lives with the non-custodial parent; medical or educational costs for the child have increased; or a new custody agreement has been reached. In addition to a court order, a Parental Separation Agreement must also be signed by the custodial and non-custodial parent if the payment is to be suspended. This agreement spells out the terms and conditions of the suspension, and should also include a plan for the non-custodial parent to pay the back payments owed when the suspension ends. Whether or not the payments can be reduced or suspended depends on the particular circumstances of the case and the discretion of the court. It is best to speak with a knowledgeable attorney who understands Massachusetts child support laws before making any changes to an existing child support order.

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Can child support payments be reduced or suspended?

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