Florida, child support is calculated using a specific formula outlined in the Florida Child Support Guidelines. The guidelines take into account various factors to determine the amount of child support that should be paid.
The first step in calculating child support is to determine the combined monthly income of both parents. This includes income from all sources such as wages, salaries, bonuses, commissions, and self-employment income. It may also include income from benefits such as Social Security, disability, or unemployment compensation.
Once the combined monthly income is determined, the next step is to calculate the basic child support obligation. This is done by referring to the child support guidelines table, which provides a basic support amount based on the parents’ combined income and the number of children involved. The basic support amount is then divided between the parents based on their respective incomes.
After calculating the basic child support obligation, additional expenses may be added to the total support amount. These additional expenses may include
Table of Contents
Childcare expenses
If either parent incurs childcare expenses due to work or education-related reasons, these expenses may be added to the child support amount.
Health insurance premiums
The cost of health insurance premiums paid by either parent for the child may be added to the child support amount.
Extraordinary medical expenses
If the child has any extraordinary medical expenses not covered by insurance, such as specialized treatments or therapies, these expenses may be added to the child support amount.
Extraordinary educational expenses
If the child has any extraordinary educational expenses, such as private school tuition or tutoring, these expenses may be added to the child support amount.
Travel expenses
If the parents live far apart and the child needs to travel to visit the noncustodial parent, the travel expenses may be added to the child support amount.
Once all the additional expenses are calculated, they are added to the basic child support obligation to determine the total child support amount.
It is important to note that the court has the discretion to deviate from the child support guidelines if it is determined that the guideline amount would be unjust or inappropriate. The court may consider factors such as the child’s needs, the parents’ financial resources, and the child’s standard of living before the divorce or separation.