"Can I modify my child support?" Yes. "Should I?" Well, that depends…
- Royce Nunley
- May 29, 2019
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 5
One of the most common questions we receive at The Nunley Law Group is:
"Can I modify my child support order?" The answer is yes.
"But should I?" Well -- that depends.
Whether you're paying or receiving child support, it’s natural to wonder if changes in your income, your child’s needs, or the other parent’s circumstances justify a modification. However, modifying child support in Michigan isn’t always as straightforward as it may seem. Here's what you need to know before you file a Motion to Modify Child Support.
Can You Modify a Child Support Order in Michigan?
Yes — under Michigan law, child support orders can be reviewed and modified if there has been a significant change in circumstances. Common reasons to request a child support modification include:
A substantial increase or decrease in either parent’s income
A change in the number of overnights the child spends with each parent
Changes in health insurance premiums or child care costs
A parent becoming disabled or unemployed
The child’s needs significantly changing (e.g., starting school or incurring medical expenses)
Should You Modify Your Child Support?
Before rushing to court, it’s crucial to understand that not every change leads to a favorable outcome. Let's look at a real-world example:
Example Scenario: A Costly Miscalculation
Parent A and Parent B share one child.
A child support order is issued based on:
Income of both parents
Number of parenting overnights
Child care expenses ($200/month for daycare)
Health insurance costs
Parent A pays $400/month in base support + $200/month in daycare = $600/month total
Two years later, the child starts kindergarten — daycare is no longer needed.
Parent A gets a modest raise, and Parent B files to modify support.
Under the new order:
Parent A owes $425/month in base support
The $200/month daycare contribution is removed
Total new obligation: $425/month (a $175/month decrease)
Result: Parent B filed for more child support but ended up with less. Why? Because the original order was outdated, and the court adjusted it based on the current circumstances using the Michigan Child Support Formula.
How the Michigan Child Support Formula Works
The Michigan Child Support Guidelines calculate support using factors like:
Gross income of both parents
Number of overnights each parent has
Medical and insurance premiums
Work-related child care expenses
Other child-related costs
It’s a comprehensive formula — so assumptions like "I make less, so I’ll pay less" or "They make more, so I should get more" don't always hold true.
Why You Should Talk to a Michigan Family Law Attorney First
Before filing a motion to change child support, it's smart to consult a Michigan family law attorney who can:
Run the updated support calculations using state guidelines
Predict whether your support amount is likely to go up or down
Help you avoid costly surprises or unintended consequences
Ensure your motion is supported by proper legal documentation
At The Nunley Law Group, our experienced attorneys take the guesswork out of modifying support. We use up-to-date software and knowledge of Michigan law to give you accurate information before you file.
Considering a Child Support Modification? Contact Us Today.
If you're unsure whether to seek a child support modification, don’t go it alone. Let our legal team help you understand your options, protect your financial interests, and ensure the best outcome for your child.
📞 Call The Nunley Law Group today to schedule a consultation with a trusted Michigan child support attorney.
| About the Author
Email. Royce@nunleylawgroup.com
Tel. 586-778-4555
Royce Nunley is the founder and lead attorney at The Nunley Law Group, where he represents clients in the areas of Family Law, Criminal Defense, Social Security Disability, and Personal Injury. Known for his client-focused approach and legal insight, Royce is deeply committed to delivering personalized legal solutions tailored to each individual's needs.
Royce earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish, Cum Laude, from Wayne State University, and continued his education at Wayne State University Law School, where he received his Juris Doctorate, also Cum Laude. His academic excellence laid a strong foundation for a career marked by both compassion and tenacity in the courtroom.
Royce has been recognized for his outstanding work in Family Law, earning the distinction of Super Lawyers "Rising Star" for six consecutive years—2019 through 2024—an honor reserved for only the top 2.5% of attorneys in the state.
With a reputation for taking the time to truly understand his clients and their legal challenges, Royce ensures that every person who walks through his door receives the respect, transparency, and tireless advocacy they deserve.
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