Throughout New York State, high childcare costs have become a pressing issue for families and politicians. One estimate puts the average monthly cost at $1,500 for an infant. This figure could be even higher depending on the location and the specific features of the program. Of course, families with multiple children in daycare or after-school care can have an even greater financial burden.
When the baseline cost is so high, even a rate increase of 10 percent can mean a hike of more than $100 each month. This type of change could justify a modification to your child support order if you do not live with your co-parent. You might also be affected by shifting rules on vouchers, such as those provided under the state’s Child Care Assistance Program.
Custodial parents who experience a significant increase in childcare costs may petition the court for an appropriate adjustment. To succeed, they must show evidence that their situation has changed significantly since the existing order was established. While modification requests are often associated with income shifts of at least 15 percent, they can also be granted when recurring child-rearing expenses become higher. Courts will carefully assess whether the increased costs are justified and determine whether the proposed modifications align with statutory guidelines and children’s best interests.
For parents navigating the complexities of child support modifications, having experienced legal counsel is invaluable. No matter how strong your argument might be for a change upward or downward in the monthly rate, parents cannot act on their own. A revised order must be entered to reflect the new situation.
At Bryan L. Salamone & Associates, P.C., we are committed to helping mothers and fathers achieve fair resolutions when child support, alimony or custody terms should be adjusted. We can help assemble necessary documentation, represent you in court and advise you regarding the likelihood of a successful outcome. If you believe that your child support should be revised due to a change in childcare costs or any other reason, please contact our New York family lawyers by calling 631-388-6009 or contacting us online. We also represent parents who are opposing modifications that they feel are not warranted.