- 1). File a petition with your county court. This petition for modification allows you to ask the court for a change in child support payments due to changes in your income. If you lose your job or suffer a pay cut, file this petition immediately. According to the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, if the petition successfully modifies your payments, this modification will legally take effect on the date you file the petition.
- 2). Go to the hearing after filing the petition. Present your proof of reduced income to the judge. Documents you should bring include any relating to your changed circumstances, such as a termination letter, pay stubs from your current job or a tax return.
- 3). Pay as much child support as you can. Even if you cannot make the full payments, according to the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance paying something is better than not paying anything at all.
- 4). Apply for unemployment compensation if you have lost your job. A portion of these benefits can be automatically sent to your child support office.