How to Ask DCS to Review Your Child Support Order for Modification
by: Northwest Justice Project
Introduction
If you have a child support order that DCS is enforcing, you have a few options for getting it modified. This packet explains how to ask DCS to review your order to see if modification is appropriate in your case.
You can also use this procedure if you want DCS to add medical support to your child support order.
What forms will I need?
You can print out the following form from the DCS website:
You can get these forms from the courts website www.courts.wa.gov/forms:
How do I fill out the forms?
Request for Review of Child Support Order.
Fill in the blanks after "To:" with the names and mailing addresses of the other party (parties) and of your local DCS office. After "Re:" fill in the name/s of the child/ren covered by the support order. Fill out the blank after "IV-D CASE NUMBER" using notices you've gotten from DCS that have that information.
Read and follow the instructions in the box.
Check all the boxes that you believe apply to your case.
Read numbers one through eight on the second page.
Sign and date where indicated.
What do I do after filling out the forms?
Mail the forms to your local child support office. DCS will ask for child support worksheets from you and the other party.
How will DCS decide whether to modify my child support order?
DCS will review your support order for possible modification using the following criteria:
DCS must have jurisdiction over the order or acquire jurisdiction by registration of the order. If another state has jurisdiction over your support order, contact that state directly to request adjustment. Otherwise, DCS may refer the case to that state.
- The amount of change DCS anticipates must be:
- at least 100$ and at least a 25% change up or down, or
- an increase in current support of less than $100 that would allow your family to get off public assistance (TANF).
- It's been 3 years since your order was entered or last reviewed for modification by DCS, or
- There's been a significant change of circumstances since the order was entered or was last modified.
Here are some examples of "significant change in circumstance:"
- You're currently in jail.
- You've become permanently disabled.
- You're currently receiving public assistance (such as SSI or TANF).
- You have new children you must support.
- You've lost your job and you can't find work at the same wage.
What's not in this packet?
You can skip asking DCS for a review if you have a court order from Washington State. Our packet Filing a Petition for Modification of your Child Support Order has forms and some instructions.
3821EN
This publication provides general information concerning your rights and responsibilities. It is not intended as a substitute for specific legal advice.
This information is current as of the date of its printing, September 2009.
© 2009 Northwest Justice Project.
1-888-201-1014, TTY 1-888-201-9737
(Permission for copying and distribution granted to the Alliance for Equal Justice and individuals for non-commercial use only.)
|
