What Is Child Support?
Parents are legally obligated to financially support their children. In the United States, this typically occurs through "child support".
Child support is a payment from one parent to the other for the purpose of meeting the financial needs of the child or children.
Child support is generally calculated based on numerous factors, including each parent's income, the number of children, and the time each parent spends with the child.
Child support is paid by the non-custodial parent (the parent who does not have primary custody of the child or children) to the custodial parent (the parent who has primary custody).
There are also instances where the custodial parent pays child support to the non-custodial parent. This happens when the custodial parent has a higher income than the non-custodial parent.
Child support is typically paid on a monthly basis but can be paid more or less often based on the agreement between the parents.
In some cases, a court orders child support. In other cases, the parents may agree on an amount of child support to be paid and put it in writing in what is called a "voluntary agreement".
If the parents cannot agree on an amount of child support, they may go to court and ask a judge to order child support.
Child support is typically paid until the child or children turn 18, though it may be paid until the recipient(s) finish high school.
In some instances, child support payments may continue after the recipient(s) turn 18 if the child or children are disabled.
What Is the Purpose of Child Support?
The purpose of child support is to help meet the financial needs of the child or children. This includes food, shelter, clothing, medical care, and education.
Child support should help ensure that the child or children have the same standard of living if the parents were still together.
How Is Child Support Calculated?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the amount of child support can vary depending on the case.
In general, however, child support is calculated based on numerous factors, including each parent's income, the number of children, and the amount of time each parent spends with the child.
Child Support: Is It Taxable?
Generally, child support is not taxable. This means that the parent paying child support does not have to pay taxes on the money they give to the other parent for supporting the child or children.
The only time child support would be taxable is if it is part of a divorce settlement and is considered alimony. In this case, the payments would be taxable income for the parent receiving them.
Child Support: Is It Tax-Deductible?
Similarly, child support is not tax-deductible. This means the parent who pays child support cannot deduct the payments they make from their taxes.
The only time child support could be considered tax-deductible is if it is part of a divorce settlement and is considered alimony. In this case, the payments would be tax-deductible for the parent paying them.
The Bottom Line
Child support is a payment from one parent to the other for the purpose of meeting the financial needs of the child or children.
Child support is generally not taxable, though there are some exceptions. Child support is also not tax-deductible, though there are exceptions.
Ultimately, child support aims to ensure that the child or children have the same standard of living if the parents were still together.
FAQs
1. What if the non-custodial parent does not pay child support?
If the non-custodial parent does not pay child support, they may be in contempt of court. This can result in penalties, including wage garnishment, loss of driving privileges, and even jail time.
2. What if the non-custodial parent does not have a source of income?
If the non-custodial parent does not have a source of income, the court may order them to seek employment. If the non-custodial parent cannot find employment, they may be required to pay child support based on their potential income.
3. Can child support be modified?
Yes, child support can be modified. Modifications can be made based on circumstances, such as a change in income or the number of children. Either parent can request a modified child support order.
4. Is it possible that both parents are non-custodial and pay child support?
It is possible for both parents to be non-custodial and pay child support. This happens when the child/children were under the custody of each parent for an equal amount of time.
5. If one parent earns more money, will they automatically have to pay more child support?
If one parent earns more money, they may have to pay more child support. The amount of child support relates to numerous factors, including each parent's income and the number of children. In some cases, the higher-earning parent may have to pay a higher percentage of their income in child support.
