How do you estimate child support with so many different variables to consider? Here’s what you need to know.
Child Support Calculator
Child support calculations can vary by state and case, but here’s a simplified breakdown to help you understand.
Income Shares Model
Most states follow the income shares model for child support. It estimates the total income that both parents would have contributed to the child if they were together. Then, the court splits the obligation proportionately.
Percentage of Income Model
Some states estimate child support based solely on the non-custodial parent’s income. Then, the court applies a flat percentage depending on the number of children in the case. Talk to your attorney if you have questions about how this works.
Custody & Visitation Impact
The more time a parent spends with the child, the less they may be required to pay in child support. Shared or joint custody arrangements usually reduce the financial burden on the non-custodial parent, but many variables apply. Speak to your attorney for more information.
Adjustment for Expenses
A child support calculator accounts for extraordinary expenses, such as medical insurance premiums, childcare costs, education and extracurricular activities, special needs, and therapies. To get the most accurate calculation, consult Richards Family Law.
What You Need for Accurate Child Support Calculations
Streamline courtroom proceedings by gathering all necessary information, including:
- Number of children involved in the case
- Gross monthly income (before taxes) for both parents
- Custody scheduling (number of overnights per parent per year)
- Health insurance premium costs
- Childcare expenses (if applicable)
- Prior support obligations or alimony
Incomplete or inaccurate information could skew child support calculations. Collaborate with a reputable family law attorney to verify. Also, set realistic expectations, negotiate terms from an informed position, and plan for future expenses, including housing, education, and transportation.
Modifying Child Support
Life changes, and so can your financial situation. Significant shifts in income, employment, living arrangements, and parenting time may make a parent eligible for child support modifications. Also, never assume that an informal agreement will hold up in court. Custodial and non-custodial parents must go through the proper channels.
Child support modifications require proof of a significant change that’s ongoing or permanent. Most courts won’t consider short-term changes like a one-month gap in income. Failing to formally adjust a child support order can cause arrears, even if the parents had a verbal agreement.
Avoiding Common Mistakes When Estimating Child Support
Using a child support calculator is helpful, but it’s not perfect and not always accurate. The best way to get an accurate calculation is to work with an experienced family law practitioner to avoid the common mistakes.
Here is what you should NOT do when estimating child support obligations:
- Do not guess income or use net income instead of gross.
- Do not underreport parenting time.
- Do not forget about tax implications or adjustments.
- Do not ignore regional legal changes.
- Do not fail to include extraordinary expenses like tutoring and therapy.
While estimates provide a strong starting point, the court always has the final say and can deviate from guidelines for valid reasons. Meanwhile, double-check your information before submitting, print documents, save receipts, and speak to your attorney if you have questions.
Child support obligations are not one-size-fits-all. Calculators provide a general estimate, and only the courts can decide. When in doubt, err on the side of transparency and come prepared with documentation to back your claims.
Contact Richards Family Law Today
Child support calculators can provide a general estimate, but they’re only one part of a much more complex calculation. Get personalized legal support from Richards Family Law to make informed decisions that benefit the child’s best interests.
