How to change child support in Idaho
The rule for changing support, the forms, and a ready letter to the agency.
Checked against official sources: Oct 25, 2026.
Short answer
To modify an order means to change the amount by a new order. The court can change support only for a substantial and material change of circumstances, and only for payments due after the motion is filed.
- Agency review
- Every 3 years if a parent asks (federal law)
When Idaho allows a change
The court can change support only for a substantial and material change of circumstances, and only for payments due after the motion is filed. A change in the guideline amount may count as such a change (I.R.F.L.P. 120(d)). Child Support Services reviews an order after 3 years at either parent's request, or sooner if a substantial change has lasted at least 6 months.
Law: Idaho Code 32-709; Idaho Code 32-709; I.R.F.L.P. 120(d)
Can I ask for a change? Check your situation
How a change is made in Idaho
Call Child Support Services at 800-356-9868 to ask for a review (fees may be charged), or file a Petition to Modify an Order, Judgment or Decree with the court. Use the Health and Welfare (H&W) versions of the forms if the Department was a party to your case.
- Petition to Modify an Order, Judgment or Decree
- Petition to Modify (H&W cases)
- Court Assistance Office: change custody, visitation or child support
Write to the child support agency to ask for a review: Ask the agency to review (change) your order
What changed in 2024–2026 in Idaho
The Idaho Child Support Guidelines (I.R.F.L.P. 120) were amended June 3, 2025, effective July 1, 2025. Child Support Services published a new fee schedule effective October 2025.
Incarceration and changes
State guidelines may not treat time in jail or prison as choosing not to work, when support is set or changed.
Law: 45 CFR 302.56(c)(3)
In nearby states
Steps to change support in Idaho
Read your current order
The date of the order matters for the rule.
Check the rule
In Idaho: The court can change support only for a substantial and material change of circumstances, and only for payments due after the motion is filed.
Gather proof
Bring proof of the change, such as pay stubs or a layoff notice.
Send your request
Ask for a review with Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, Child Support Services (800-356-9868) · Apply online
Talk to legal aid
Free help: Idaho Legal Aid Services and Idaho State Bar Lawyer Referral Service.
Free help in Idaho
Questions about changing support in Idaho
When can child support be changed in Idaho?
The court can change support only for a substantial and material change of circumstances, and only for payments due after the motion is filed. A change in the guideline amount may count as such a change (I.R.F.L.P. 120(d)). Child Support Services reviews an order after 3 years at either parent's request, or sooner if a substantial change has lasted at least 6 months.
How do I ask to change child support in Idaho?
Call Child Support Services at 800-356-9868 to ask for a review (fees may be charged), or file a Petition to Modify an Order, Judgment or Decree with the court. Use the Health and Welfare (H&W) versions of the forms if the Department was a party to your case.