If you are a parent who is receiving child support or paying it, you may be concerned about whether the amount you are required to pay is accurate and sufficient. You may also be wondering if you can modify your support payment as a result of a change in your circumstances, such as a job loss or an increase in income.
It’s important to keep in mind that child support is not a “right” that is granted by the court, but rather an obligation to provide financial resources for your child. It’s the responsibility of both parents to meet the child’s needs, including housing, food, health care and clothing.
Depending on your state’s guidelines, you may be required to pay a certain percentage of your income toward this purpose. This percentage will be based on how much money the non-custodial parent earns and what the children’s needs are in terms of housing, food, medical care and other expenses.
As a responsible parent, you are responsible for making sure that you are paying the right amount of child support. If you are unable to do so, you must contact the child support agency in your jurisdiction and request an adjustment of the amount you are required to pay.
In many cases, child support is set based on the combined incomes of both parents and the number of children involved in the case. The parent who is not in custody of the child is required to pay a portion of that basic amount to the custodial parent for their children’s living expenses, as well as for education and medical expenses.
Don’t try to reduce or eliminate child support payments through actions taken in bad faith. If you are unable to pay the required amounts and are experiencing significant problems, seek the help of an experienced family attorney.
Bring calm to co-parenting meetings and discussions. If you are in a tense environment, it can lead to misunderstandings or even arguments. Instead, show respect and kindness to your ex.
Do not engage in any derogatory remarks or behavior toward your ex-spouse in front of the children, family or friends. Such behaviors may come back to haunt you later as evidence in your case and send the wrong message to the children.
Similarly, do not discuss monetary matters with the children while you are in a tense situation. It is not only inappropriate but also illegal and could be used against you in court.
Don’t withhold visitation in an effort to prevent your ex-spouse from making child support payments. This is a violation of the law and can result in you being held in contempt of court, which may involve jail time.
Keeping these tips in mind will ensure that you are in compliance with the law and do not create legal ramifications for yourself or your family. In addition, it will make you a more responsible and dependable parent to your children. It will also improve your relationship with your ex-spouse and help avoid potential conflict in the future.