Yes, a child support order in Washington can be modified in one of the two following ways:
Motion for Adjustment of Child Support: If it has been two years since the initial child support order and a parent’s income has changed, this is generally the quicker and easier path. There is less paperwork, and the matter can often be settled in a single hearing. Additionally, this motion can be filed if it has been at least one year since the original order, and the child changed age categories by turning 12.
Petition to Modify Child Support Order: If a year has passed from the initial child support order, this petition can be filed if either the payments are causing a severe financial hardship to you or the child, the child has turned 18 but hasn’t finished high school, or if there has been a drastic change in economic circumstances.
Filing a case to modify child support should be completed immediately after a change in income since child support cannot change retroactively. However, due to COVID-19, most court buildings in Washington are operating under emergency modifications and are shut down or closed to the public. As a result, there will likely be a lengthy delay before a judge can rule on the matter, which means no immediate relief. Depending on where you are located, some jurisdictions make it easier than others to file a modification request. Reach out to an attorney to discuss your options.