What is a cost of living adjustment for child support?

A cost of living adjustment (COLA) for child support is a change in the amount of child support paid that takes inflation into account. This adjustment is important because it helps ensure that the amount of money paid for child support keeps up with the rising costs of living. In Massachusetts, both parents can petition the court for a COLA if they have proof of inflation and the amount of money they’ve had to pay for support is not enough. If the court finds that the parents’ arguments are valid, it will issue a new order with an adjusted amount of child support. The court considers factors such as current health care costs, housing costs, and other living expenses when deciding whether to approve a COLA. The new adjusted amount of child support can range from a decrease to an increase. If the court approves a decrease, the parent paying the child support may end up paying less; if the court approves an increase, the parent receiving the child support will likely receive more money. Either way, the adjustment helps make sure that the amount of money paid for support is fair and keeps up with the rise in costs of living.

Related FAQs

How can I increase my child support payments?
What is the difference between a sole and joint custody arrangement?
What is the process for enforcing a child support order?
What expenses can a non-custodial parent be responsible for?
What type of visitation rights are associated with a child support order?
How does the change in tax laws affect child support payments?
What is the difference between child support and child maintenance?
What is a court hearing for child support?
What is a deviation from the child support guidelines?
What happens if the amount of child support payable is more than the paying parent can afford?

What is a cost of living adjustment for child support?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts