WATCH: Once the amount and duration of child support have been set, can either be changed?

Erin Durnell answers:

In Indiana, child support is typically ordered through a child’s 19th birthday. Once an order is issued, it remains in effect until the court modifies or terminates it. Child support orders may be modified if there is a change in circumstances rendering the current order unreasonable. Child support orders may also be modified if at least 12 months have passed since the prior order AND there is at least a 20% change in the resulting obligation. As an example, child support may need to be modified if a parent changes jobs, or if the parenting time schedule changes.

We recommend that a client with a child who is turning 19 consider filing a petition to terminate the obligation on or near the child’s 19th birthday – and they must do so if there are younger children who are still being supported so that the obligation can be adjusted accordingly. We are always happy to talk with clients who think that their child support order may need to be modified.

Erin Maybee Durnell focused her practice on all aspects of Indiana family law. In 2022, Erin (Durnell) Weaver has been selected to serve as a Magistrate in our Hamilton County courts.