Child Support

How much a person pays in child support depends principally on how many children there are, and how much money each parent earns. Every state uses a grid, matrix, or chart generally known as the Child Support Guidelines or the support table. The child support guidelines or support table indicates the amount of obligation of the parents for child support, based on the number of children and the combined earnings of the parents.

In virtually every case, both parents will be required to complete a financial statement to advise the court of their various sources of income, their expenses, and other financial circumstances. These financial statements have various names, such as Statement of Net Worth (New York), Case Information Statement (New Jersey), Financial Affidavit (Florida). Usually, parties are required to supply their tax returns, pay stubs, and W-2 forms to the court as well. These days, child support is calculated using computer software programs. The programs will apply certain tax information, and make appropriate deductions for health insurance contributions, extraordinary expenses, and such mandatory payroll deductions as union dues. Although there is some uniformity in the way child support is calculated, each state has its own peculiar procedures, and the guidelines and tables used in each state differ because of diverse economics conditions across the country.

If you are involved in a child support case, and especially if you have specific financial circumstances requiring attention, you should consult a competent family lawyer to assist you in preparing the necessary submissions to the court.