To amend a court-ordered child support order, you must either submit a written agreement to the court or file a formal Request for Order form in your state if you and the other parent do not agree. If there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as a job loss or change in income or custody, you can petition the court to modify the order.
You and the other parent agree on the change
Create a written agreement: Both parents agree on the new terms and create a “Stipulated Agreement”.
Submit to the court: Submit the written agreement to the court for a judge to sign and approve.
You and the other parent do not agree
File a formal request: Fill out and file a “Request for Order” with the court in your state that issued the original order.
File supporting documents: You will also need to file an Income and Expense Declaration and provide evidence of the changed circumstances, such as pay stubs, financial records, or other relevant documents.
Serve the other parent: Formally serve the other parent with a copy of the request. This must be done by someone who is over 18 and not involved in the case.
Attend a hearing: A court hearing will be scheduled, where you and the other parent can present your case. The judge will review the evidence and make a decision.
Important considerations
Amend a Birth Certificate with a DNA Paternity Test using Legal Paternity DNA Test Option
Pay the current order: Do not stop paying child support based on your own belief that the amount should change. Continue to make payments according to the existing court order until an official modification is approved.
Involve the LCSA: If a Local Child Support Agency (LCSA) is involved in your case, you must follow their specific instructions and get their approval for any agreement.
Filing fees: There may be a filing fee to submit the request. Fee waivers may be available if you qualify.
Legal advice: Consider consulting with a family law attorney to understand your specific situation and the best way to proceed


Child support California Courts Self Help Guide, Date accessed, November 19, 2025, https://selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/child-support#:~:text=If%20you%20and%20the%20other%20parent%20don’t%20agree%20about,if%20one%20of%20the%20parents





