Quick answer: In Ohio, the court recalculates support under the schedule and worksheet. If the result is more than 10% above or below your order, that is a change substantial enough to require modification. A court may modify payments that come due after notice of the petition, not delinquent support.
This Ohio child support modification calculator applies ORC 3119.79. Enter your current order and the amount the schedule gives today (you can get it from the Ohio child support calculator), and it shows whether the 10% rule is met, the monthly gap and what it adds up to after notice of your petition.
Ohio child support modification at a glance
| Rule | What Ohio says |
|---|---|
| 10% deviation | If the recalculated amount is more than 10% greater or less than the existing order, the deviation is a change of circumstance substantial enough to require modification (ORC 3119.79(A)) |
| Health coverage | Inadequate health insurance that leaves the child’s medical needs unmet is substantial enough (3119.79(B)) |
| Other changes | A substantial change not contemplated at the last order; the court modifies to the schedule unless unjust or inappropriate (3119.79(C)) |
| Start date | Payments that become due after notice of the petition has been given to each obligee and the obligor (3119.84) |
| Delinquent support | May not be retroactively modified (3119.83) |
| Minimum order | At least $80 a month for all children, with discretion to go lower or to zero (3119.06) |
How does child support modification work in Ohio?
- Know the 10% rule. See what counts as a substantial change in Ohio.
- File and give notice promptly. See how to modify child support in Ohio.
- Income problems and incarceration. See lowering child support after job loss or incarceration in Ohio and, for what stays owed, the Ohio child support arrears calculator.
What does this modification calculator check?
The calculator tests whether the recalculated amount is more than 10% above or below your order (exactly 10% does not count), shows the monthly gap and the accrued difference after notice. It cannot decide whether a different substantial change exists or whether the court will find the schedule amount unjust.
Frequently asked questions
How much does child support have to change to be modified in Ohio?
If the recalculated amount is more than 10% greater or less than the existing order, the deviation is substantial enough to require modification.
Does exactly 10% count in Ohio?
No. The statute says more than ten per cent.
From what date can Ohio change child support?
A court may modify payments that become due after notice of the petition has been given; it may not retroactively modify delinquent support.
Can inadequate health insurance modify Ohio child support?
Yes. If the child's medical needs are not being met because of inadequate coverage, that is a substantial change.
What is the minimum Ohio child support order?
At least $80 a month for all children subject to the order, though the court may issue less or none in appropriate circumstances.