Ordered that the order entered May 26, 2009, is affirmed insofar as appealed from, without costs or disbursements.
A parent seeking downward modification of a child support obligation has the burden of establishing a substantial and unanticipated change in circumstances ( see Matter of Gedacht v Agulnek, 67 AD3d 1013). In order to meet that burden, a party seeking a downward modification based on a loss of employment must submit evidence demonstrating that he or she has diligently sought to obtain employment commensurate with that party's earning capacity ( id.). In addition, "[i]n determining whether there has been a substantial change in circumstances, the change is measured by comparing the payor's financial situation at the time of the application for a downward modification with that at the time of the order [sought to be modified]" ( Matter of Mandelowitz v Bodden, 68 AD3d 871, 874, lv denied 14 NY3d 710). Here, the father failed to establish a substantial and unanticipated change in circumstances or diligent job search efforts. Furthermore, the father failed to establish that he was entitled to have his child support arrears reduced or eliminated ( see Matter of Betancourt v Betancourt, 71 AD3d 764; Dembitzer v Rindenow, 35 AD3d 791; Matter of Telfer v Maher, 270 AD2d 494).