The Question:
Am I required to report changes to the other parent that might lead to a decrease in child support? For example, if I’m paying less in daycare or health insurance?
RJ Says:
Under Arizona law, you are required to report certain changes to the court, such as a change in your employment or a change of address. Most child support orders also include a provision requiring periodic exchange of financial information between parents—often annually. If your order includes that language, you are expected to comply.
However, if you do not voluntarily report changes like reduced daycare costs or lower health insurance premiums, the burden still falls on the other parent to file a motion to modify child support. Arizona does not allow retroactive child support modifications, meaning that child support can only be changed going forward from the date a request is filed. So, for every month the other parent does not act, that is a month where the current obligation continues—even if circumstances have changed.
That said, if your court order requires you to provide health insurance, and you no longer have coverage in place, you should notify the other parent. Failing to do so could lead to a violation of your court order.
In short, while you may not be obligated to notify the other parent of changes that could reduce your support obligation, you are required to comply with any reporting terms in your current order. And, of course, honesty and transparency in co-parenting can help avoid unnecessary legal disputes.
A qualified and experienced family law attorney can help you review your current orders and determine your obligations. Our office offers free half-hour consultations. Call (602) 256-7575 to schedule yours today.