Hi everyone… I’m in New York with 50/50 custody of my two kids (14 and 17). I currently pay $1700/month in child support due to my higher income, but my ex hasn’t worked in years and lives off the support I pay him. Our agreement states I’ll pay this amount until the youngest is 21. With my oldest starting college soon—and me covering those costs—I’m worried about how to manage everything financially. Is it reasonable to seek a modification of child support when I’ll be paying for two kids in college? I’m concerned that trying to modify it might backfire and result in me paying even more. Also, I’ve always covered extra costs for the kids’ needs beyond what I pay him. Any advice or experience with this would be appreciated!
You definitely have grounds to ask for a modification. Given that you’ll be paying for college expenses, it seems unfair to keep the same support amount.
Make sure you document all the extra expenses you cover for the kids. That might help your case when asking for a modification.
Since he hasn’t been employed for a while, the court might look at his ability to work. If you can show that you’re taking on the full burden of education expenses, that should help your case.
It might be worth discussing with a lawyer before you proceed. They can give you a clearer idea of how a modification might affect your payments.
Just remember, the court considers the best interests of the children. Highlighting how much you do for them could sway the decision in your favor.