Can child support be modified retroactively?

Generally, no. Under Florida Statute 61.14, modifications only take effect from the date you file your petition.

Important points:

• You cannot recover additional support for past periods unless there was fraud, clerical error, or newly discovered evidence.
• The current order stays in place until the court enters a new one.

Strategy: File as soon as your circumstances change (income, timesharing, etc.) so the modification starts sooner.