Child support generally may be changed or modified by filing a motion to modify and demonstrating to the court that the circumstances of the child or one or both parents have materially and substantially changed, or that some period of time (3 years, for example) has passed since the court’s last child support order. And if there has been a material and substantial change in the custody of the child—if, for example, the noncustodial parent who was paying child support has become the custodial parent—the court may change or eliminate the child support obligation based on the change in the custody arrangement.

In Alabama, child support orders can be modified if there has been a material and substantial change in the circumstances of the child or either parent. To initiate a modification, a parent must file a motion to modify with the court that issued the original child support order. The court will then evaluate if the changes are significant enough to warrant an adjustment to the child support amount. This could include changes in income, employment, health of the child or parents, or living arrangements. Additionally, if there has been a change in the custody of the child, such as the noncustodial parent becoming the custodial parent, the court may also modify or terminate the child support obligation to reflect the new custody arrangement. It is also common for child support to be reviewed every three years to consider potential changes in circumstances. Parents considering a modification of child support should consult with an attorney to understand the specific requirements and process in Alabama.