A Pay Raise Doesn’t Automatically End Child Support
Many parents in Lexington worry that if they get a new job, a promotion, or a raise, their ex might use it as an excuse to stop paying child support.
The good news:
Child support does NOT automatically stop just because you earn more.
In South Carolina, only the family court can change or end child support — not the paying parent.
When Income Changes Can Lead to a Child Support Review
While your higher income alone won’t end support, it might lead your ex to ask the court for a modification.
To succeed, they must prove:
- There’s been a substantial change in circumstances, and
- The change affects the child’s financial needs or fairness of the current order.
Judges look at the full financial picture, not just your raise.
Factors Lexington Judges Actually Consider
When deciding whether to modify child support, the court may review:
- Each parent’s current income
- Childcare and health insurance costs
- The child’s needs and age
- Parenting time
- School, medical, or activity expenses
- Any changes in living arrangements or custody
Your increase in income is just one factor — it rarely decides the case alone.
What Your Ex Cannot Do
Your ex cannot:
- Unilaterally stop paying
- Reduce payments on their own
- Change payment amounts without a new court order
- Claim that your raise or new job automatically ends their obligation
Failing to pay court-ordered support can lead to:
- Wage garnishment
- License suspension
- Contempt of court
- Jail time in severe cases
Lexington judges take unpaid child support very seriously.
When Income Increases Do Not Affect Support
Child support is unlikely to change if:
- The increase is modest
- The paying parent still earns significantly more
- The child’s needs haven’t changed
- Parenting time has stayed the same
- You already pay for extras like insurance or childcare
The court’s focus is always:
What best supports the child — not what benefits either parent.
What If Your Ex Gets a Raise?
If the paying parent gets a substantial raise, you may be able to request a modification to increase support.
Again, it depends on the full situation — not just income alone.
Quick FAQs
Will child support end completely if I out-earn my ex?
Not automatically. The court must review the situation to determine if ending support is appropriate.
Can child support decrease if I become financially stable?
Possibly, but only after a formal modification request and court approval.
What if my ex stopped paying without a court order?
You can file for enforcement or contempt, even if they claim your income changed.
Final Thought
If your income has changed — or your ex is threatening to stop paying support — don’t navigate this alone.
Call The Farley Law Firm today to schedule a confidential consultation. We help Lexington parents understand their rights and protect their children’s financial stability.
Disclaimer
This information is for general education only and not legal advice. Schedule a consultation to discuss your case. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
