How to Modify Child Support in South Carolina: Filing Steps and Effective Date

By the FigureMyTax Editorial Team · How we calculate

To modify South Carolina child support, file a Support Reduction Complaint in family court or ask the Child Support Services division. Only payments after the modification can change, so file as soon as your circumstances change.

How do you modify child support in South Carolina?

1. Run the guideline amount in the South Carolina child support calculator and test it in the modification calculator.
2. File in family court. To reduce support, the Judicial Department points to a Support Reduction Complaint (SCCA451), which you must serve on the other parent (family court FAQ); for an increase, a DSS case goes through the Child Support Services division.
3. Show the change.
4. Keep paying the existing order: a request does not stop enforcement (63-17-830(B)).

Can the South Carolina division handle a request?

Yes, in cases it enforces. The obligor or obligee may file a written request for modification with the division by certified mail. If the division does not object for lack of changed circumstances, it serves a notice of financial responsibility and proceeds; if it objects, it tells you that a petition for review may be filed with the Family Court (63-17-830(A)).

What does the family court consider besides the numbers?

It acts as the circumstances and the nature of the case make fit, equitable and just (20-3-160). Bring evidence of the child’s needs as well as both incomes.

Why does filing promptly matter?

Because only payments accruing after the modification can change (63-17-830(C)). A change in January and a filing in July leaves six months at the old amount.

Which South Carolina court handles it?

Any family court may enforce or modify another court’s support order, and a party can ask to transfer the case to the county where the other party lives (63-17-320). The family court has continuing jurisdiction to modify the order (63-17-3050).

Can I stop paying support while the case is pending?

No. The FAQ says you may stop paying child support only when you receive a signed order from a family court judge ending your responsibility (sccourts.org).

Can I dismiss South Carolina support if we reconciled?

The custodial parent can file a Motion and Order to Dismiss Support (SCCA442), but only if no money is owed to the State for prior public assistance (SCFAQ). If money is owed, contact the DSS caseworker.

Can I file in the county where the other parent lives?

Any family court can enforce or modify another court’s support order, and either party can petition to transfer the case to the county where the other party resides when it serves the ends of justice (63-17-320). Ask the clerk how transfer affects your hearing date.

What forms do I need?

The Judicial Department names the Support Reduction Complaint (SCCA451) for reductions and a Motion and Order to Dismiss Support (SCCA442) when parents reconcile (family court FAQ). Ask the clerk for the current forms and the filing fee.

How much does a late filing cost? An example

If you file 3, 6 or 9 months after your change, the relief you lose at a $300 monthly difference is:

What happens to unpaid support while the case is pending?

It stays owed. See whether South Carolina arrears expire or can be forgiven and add up your balance.

Frequently asked questions

Official sources

• S.C. Code 63-17-830: modification of orders
• S.C. Code 20-3-160: maintenance of children
• S.C. Code 63-3-530: family court jurisdiction
• Court self-help packet: 20% reference
• South Carolina Judicial Department: family court FAQ
• 42 U.S.C. 666(a)(9): no retroactive modification of support already due

This is general information, not legal advice. It is based on the cited South Carolina statutes, rules and court opinions, and every case turns on its own facts. Confirm how the law applies to your situation with a licensed South Carolina attorney.