Changing Child Support Orders
The court sets child support obligations based on family circumstances and information from both parents. A child support order can only be changed by a court order or by cost-of-living adjustments. You may be able to change your order if income, child care, medical coverage or other circumstances change.
For more information, go to the Minnesota Department of Children, Youth and Families' Child Support website.
Requesting a change
Either parent can request changes to the amount of support due. If you think your order should be changed, use the Child Support Guidelines Calculator to estimate the payment before asking for a review. You may also contact our office to discuss review options.
Either parent has these options if interested in changing their court order:
- Request a review: If you have an open Dakota County child support case and circumstances change, you can ask our office for a review or visit Child Support ezDocs.
- Bring your own motion: There are forms and instructions on the Minnesota Court website. Court Administrator Offices or libraries may also have the forms. You may wish to contact a private attorney.
- Reach an agreement: If you and the other parent agree to a change in the order, the county may be able to help. Contact our office for more information.
Cost-of-living adjustments
Most Minnesota child support orders include an automatic change to the amount of support every two years based on the cost of living. For more information, go to the Minnesota Department of Children, Youth and Families Child Support website.
If you receive a notice that your basic support will change due to the cost-of-living, you can:
- Do nothing. The adjusted amount due becomes effective on May 1.
- Contest the adjustment by filing a motion.
- Reach an agreement. If you have an open Dakota County child support case and all parties agree that no change or a partial change should be made, contact our office.
Forms and instructions
Forms and instructions are available from:
- Private attorney
- Minnesota Court Forms and Instructions