New 2026 Guideline Calculations Produce a Different Result

Submitted by B.J. Abbott on Thu, 06/25/2026 - 09:08

The revised statute now includes:

Mandatory parenting-time adjustments
New low-income adjustments
Expanded income tables
Credits for certain VA benefits
New rules for determining the custodial parent in equal-time cases

While the law change alone does not automatically modify existing orders, many parents whose current orders were calculated under the old formula may have a strong basis to seek a review.

Existing orders remain in effect until modified by the court.

Important Georgia Rule

Generally, a parent may seek modification after the statutory waiting period or sooner if there is a substantial change in circumstances affecting the child support calculation.

The modification is not automatic—you must file a petition and obtain a new court order.

Quick Screening Test

You may have a strong modification claim if one or more of the following applies:

✅ Income changed significantly

✅ Parenting time has substantially increased or decreased

✅ Childcare or health insurance costs changed significantly

✅ Child has new medical or educational needs

✅ Your current order was calculated before the 2026 parenting-time adjustments and the new worksheet would produce a materially different result

Could You Qualify for a Child Support Modification?

Please keep in mind that if your prior child support order was entered before January 1, 2026, you may be entitled to a significant reduction in your child support obligation.