We can help you establish, modify & enforce a child support order in Vermont.
Establish Child Support Order
Child and medical support are usually determined at the same time as custody — during a separation or divorce procedure or as part of a legal action to establish parentage. The order issued by the court spells out:
- Who pays and who receives support
- Who is covered by the order
- The amount to be paid
- When, how and how often payments must be made
Modify a Child Support Order
Once a child support order is issued, it can only be modified (or changed) by the court. Either parent can petition the court to modify the order when there is a:
- Real, substantial and unanticipated change in circumstances (e.g., job loss, significant income change, disability, or change in custody)
- Need to suspend wage withholding
- Change that will result in child support that’s at least 10% higher or lower than ordered
- Court review of their support order, which either parent may request once every three years
Court form to modify support: Application to waive filing fees/service costs
Income/Expenses Affidavit: VT Court Form | VT Law Help Interactive Form | Motion to Modify
Enforce a Support Order
If the non-custodial parent is not complying with a child support order issued in Vermont or another state, we may be able to help you enforce it. If the non-custodial parent lives outside the U.S., we may be able to help you determine the enforcement options available.
Need Help?
If you need help to establish, modify or enforce a support order, send us a completed application for child support services. Services are free for parents and guardians of children under 18 or still in high school.
More Information
- Read the brochure Understanding Your Child Support Order.
- Read Child Support in Vermont: A Handbook for Parents.
- Call the Child Support Helpline at 1-800-786-3214.