Unless specified as “non-modifiable” in the original divorce decree, all custody, visitation, and support agreements are modifiable. Missouri child support law provides that modifying child support in Missouri is possible whenever significant changes in circumstances occur.

Read on to learn more about how child support in Missouri is determined, including how shared custody and extraordinary costs may affect child support calculations.

Change in Custody

Custody is handled on a state level, and Missouri has specific child support guidelines. Your attorney can explain how custody changes affect child support payments.

A residential schedule can be modified, but this requires a strong argument that it would be in the children’s best interests to do so.

A substantial change in circumstance can also include a significant increase or decrease in either parent’s financial situation. For example, a job loss might justify a change in the amount paid for support. However, a regular and modest salary increase might not be considered a substantial change.

Change in Income

In Missouri, child support is typically paid until a child reaches age 18 or graduates high school. The court uses something called the Schedule of Basic Child Support Obligations to calculate a baseline amount based on the parent’s gross incomes.

The court can deviate from this amount for a number of reasons. One reason is if the supporting parent received a significant salary increase. Another is when a stepparent’s income is relevant. The state Department of Social Services handles these matters through its statewide Child Support Program. Payments are usually deducted automatically from the paying parent’s paycheck.

Change in Visitation Schedule

Either parent can petition a court for a change in the visitation schedule, especially when the non-custodial parent gets a new job that requires frequent travel. This often affects grandparents’ rights to see their grandchildren and may necessitate a shift in the child support schedule as well.

If you are unsure whether your circumstances have changed substantially enough to warrant modification, consult a family law attorney. They can assist you with gathering the necessary documentation and arguing your case in court if needed. Most states review child support orders automatically every three years, but some allow parents to request changes sooner than that.

Change in Child Care Needs

In Missouri, child support is generally determined using what’s known as “Form 14.” This worksheet factors in the cost of a parent’s daycare costs along with other expenses.

Parson has proposed increasing the subsidy rate providers receive, and expanding school-based pre-K, as well as several tax credits to help address this issue.

While these proposals would help, it won’t solve the problem for everyone. The system can be frustrating and difficult to navigate for many parents. Luckily, there are alternative choices accessible to individuals who are facing difficulties in locating affordable child care.

Change in Health Insurance

Unless otherwise agreed, child support payments in Missouri are made through the state’s child support program and are typically paid via income withholding from a paying parent’s paycheck. Parents can conveniently make payments to their children using a prepaid debit card through this system.

The state has established what it calls Form 14 as a way to come up with a presumed child support amount. But a Judge can find that number unjust and order a different amount.

Change in Residence

In Missouri, child support is determined using what is called Form 14. This is something that is required to be completed in any family law case. It establishes a presumed amount for the Court to order. The presumed amount can be rebutted as unjust or inappropriate though.

Parents that change their residence should be prepared to demonstrate their new domicile. Documents such as cell phone records, credit card bills, travel activities, and real estate purchases can all help prove residency. Most child support is paid through income withholding from the obligor parent’s paycheck.