Child support can be a difficult number to figure, but it will always come into play when there is a divorce or break that involves children. Child support can be an even more difficult topic to broach when there is unemployment involved. These days with the COVID-19 pandemic, unemployment rates are extremely high and it is affecting the ability to pay child support for some. Keep reading to learn more about child support and how Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP can help you navigate child support and unemployment.
What do the courts consider when calculating child support?
Child support is a number calculated by the courts. They evaluate the net disposable income of both parents. This refers to the gross income, minus deductions for taxes, union fees, and health insurance premiums. Gross income also includes social security benefits, pensions, commission, and even unemployment benefits.
After factoring in the relevant costs for the child, such as health care, daycare, and other expenses, the court will estimate child support payments.
Is a parent on unemployment still responsible for paying child support?
Yes. Even if a parent is on unemployment, they are still required to pay child support. If you are no longer able to afford child support payments while you are on unemployment, you must file for a child support modification. This will typically only be granted in cases where being on unemployment is involuntary.
Can a parent reduce their income to avoid paying more child support?
No. A parent cannot simply quit their job, reduce hours, or refuse to work in order to pay less child support. The court will look at what a parent should be making, rather than what they are making in these situations.
For answers to all of your child support questions, contact Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP today!
There are a lot of different things that go into child support calculations. It can be a complex process to determine child support payments, and it is important to get them right. That is because child support is usually paid until a child turns 18, which can be a significant amount of time. If you are looking for help settling a child support payment dispute or want to know how much child support you can expect to pay in your upcoming divorce, Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP is here to help. Give us a call today at 909-482-1422 to schedule your initial consultation.
To learn more about the reliable and quality family law services that we offer, visit us on the web at Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP.
