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1. How long does it take to get my child support order modified?

The process from start to finish can take 3-6 months to complete. The first step is to contact the Division of Child Support (DCS) and request a modification packet. Fully complete the packet and provide all requested documents including your recent paystubs and last two years tax returns with W2s. The more quickly you provide all the required information to DCS, the more quickly your case will be reviewed. DCS will contact the appropriate Prosecutor's Office to review and work the case if it meets certain criteria. It is crucial that you promptly return any requested documents requested by the Prosecutor's Office or your modification case may be declined. NOTE: The earliest starting date of any new order will be the date it is filed in the Superior Court. The law does not allow the starting date to go back to when you first asked DCS for help.

2. How is child support calculated?

The legislature sets the rules for calculating child support. Child support is based on the parents' incomes. Both parents are required to submit financial information which will be filed with the court and sent to the other party. See the Revised Code of Washington 26.19 for the law on this subject.

3. What if the other party does not provide any financial documents or participate?

The non-requesting party's failure to participate, alone, will not prevent the modification action from proceeding. Income will be imputed to that parent based on employment history, if known, or other method approved by statute.

4. How can I keep my home address confidential from the other party?

You can provide an alternative address for the service of all legal papers. You must update that address with the Prosecutor, the Court and the Division of Child Support any time it changes or you may miss out on important information regarding your case. If you have provided an alternative address for service, you may redact or black out your physical address on documents provided. The other party receives any documents that the court considers. You can black out or redact social security numbers, financial account numbers, driver's license numbers and telephone numbers for you and your minor child(ren) on any documents you submit to the Prosecutor's Office.