One of the most common questions family law attorneys get is how is child support calculated? The biggest “secret” to answer that question is that no one knows. Why? Because computer software is used to make the calculations so that people don’t have to. That helps ensure that the calculations are accurate, and the correct formula means that the children’s custodial parent will receive a fair amount, based on the situation.
Family Court and the Department of Child Support Services
There are two software options for calculating child support. In family court, attorneys use a software called Dissomaster. The Department of Child Support Services has specific software that belongs to them. It’s very similar to the option used in family court but not identical.
Getting a good idea of how much you’ll be asked to pay or how much you’ll be receiving can be an excellent starting point for understanding child support in your specific case. While there are some set guidelines, every situation is unique, and both parents will want to have the proper knowledge of child support calculations for their children and finances. The most crucial aspect of any software used to calculate child support is understanding what goes into the specific calculations.
What Goes Into a Child Support Calculation
Getting the correct child support number comes through using the right data. If you’re only looking at the money you need or want to pay, you aren’t getting the entire picture. Even if you consider your income vs the other parent’s income, it’s not just about how much you both make. Other considerations go into the calculations for proper, equitable child support. Several factors are always included, with the biggest ones being:
- Your income vs the other parent’s income
- Your custodial split and how much of the time you have your children
- Whether one parent has the individual responsibility for medical expenses or insurance
- How many tax exemptions you file
- Whether you file your taxes as head of household, single, or married
However, these aren’t the only factors that matter when calculating child support. Other issues can come into play, depending on your unique situation. If you’re not sure which factors are accurate or essential in your case, you may make assumptions about the amount you’ll be paying or receiving that aren’t accurate. That could cause a problem when you go to court since what you expect and what happens won’t be the same.
Work With a Trusted Attorney
Contact us today at the Mohajer Law Firm, and let us help with how your child support is calculated. We can calculate a projected amount to know how much you should be paying or receiving. Working with a seasoned family law attorney is the best way to get the information and guidance you need to help with your child support questions. The initial consultation is free, and you can get the answers you’re looking for.
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