When a couple who has children together decides to go their separate ways, child support is often one of the most challenging issues to work out. Regardless of the custody arrangement, both parents have a legal responsibility to financially support their children. However, the laws and procedures surrounding this matter can be complicated to understand, causing a number of common child support questions to arise. Fortunately, the family law attorneys at Indianapolis Family Attorney we can provide all the answers mothers and fathers need in this stressful time.
Child Support Calculation
Family law courts follow the income shares model to determine how much a child support order should be. This involves estimating the total amount a family with two parents is likely to spend on their children and then splitting that estimation between each parent based on their individual incomes. Using this calculation model for child support, generally, the parent with greater earnings will be responsible for providing more support.
Enforcing a Support Order
There are many options available for parents having trouble collecting on their court-ordered support. If a parent has stopped making child support payments or is failing to meet their financial obligations regarding paying child support time, the other parent may reach out to a family law attorney for help enforcing the order. They may be able to:
- Secure an income withholding order
- Have the non-paying parent found in contempt of court,
- Report the non-paying parent to the IRS.
Taxes on Child Support
Child support payments are tax free payments. Fortunately, the government allows for parents to receive support without having to report it as income on their tax return. Additionally, the parent making the child support payments is not able to take a deduction on their tax return.
Modify a Support Order
After a court has ruled on child support, there are some cases when it’s possible for the court order to be modified. A parent who wishes to make changes must be able to demonstrate they’ve had a significant and ongoing change in circumstances. Qualifying examples include one parent starting a much higher paying job or getting a new permanent child custody arrangement that gives them considerably more time with their children.
If you have questions about child support, you can rely on the most accurate answers to come from a reputable family law attorney. At Indianapolis Family Lawyer, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of parents and making sure their children have the best amount of financial support available. Contact us at 317-762-3263, or visit our website for more information on all the legal services they provide.
