Hingham, MA family law attorney Kimberley Keyes explains when child support can be modified in MA. She explains that in Massachusetts, a child support order can be modified in two primary ways. The first is when there has been a material change in circumstances. This typically involves a significant increase or decrease in the paying parent’s income, though it may also relate to a substantial change in the receiving parent’s circumstances.

The second basis for modification arises when the child support guidelines themselves are revised. If the change in the guidelines results in a meaningful difference compared to the existing order, a parent may seek a modification even if both parties’ incomes remain the same. In either situation, the law allows adjustments to ensure that the child support order continues to reflect current realities and remains fair and appropriate for the child’s needs.