If you live in Florida and are preparing for a divorce, one factor that could greatly affect your future is the cost of child support. This can have a variety of factors that include the number of children you have, their ages and whether any have ongoing medical needs. Learning how to calculate child support costs as a Florida resident may help you answer a few common questions as you navigate your divorce.
- What Is an Income Shares Model?
The state of Florida employs the income shares model to calculate how much you will be paying in child support each month. This model is relatively simple to use and figures how much each parent would have contributed to the child or children in the marriage if it were not being dissolved. The income shares model is largely based on your current wages and if your spouse currently makes more than you do, his or her share may be higher than what you pay.
- What if There Is More Than One Child?
Because the income shares model can be adjusted to figure costs for more than one child, the amount can be easily adjusted using its system. For example, if you and your spouse have two children and make a combined amount of $8,000, Florida’s guidelines note that the amount for one child should equal about $1,290 monthly. Therefore, the cost of two children will be double that amount.
- What If I am the Custodial Parent?
Florida child support laws often notice the custodial parent will have more responsibility for raising his or her child and may consider this when it comes to calculating the cost. If you made less than your spouse during your marriage and he or she still brings in a higher income, you may be asked to pay a smaller percentage in child care costs. You can also ask the court for money to cover medical and educational costs for your children if they live with you after the divorce.
- Will I Be Able To Afford Child Support?
If you are concerned about being able to afford child care payments as a Florida resident, it is important to remember that the cost is based directly on your income, so the total amount will likely never be more than you can afford. Even if you only work part-time and make a limited wage, the state takes this into account with the income shares model.
If you are facing child support costs in Florida due to an upcoming divorce, learning state guidelines can help you better plan for the future. Call a divorce attorney, such as from Brandy Austin Law Firm, PLLC, today for more information.
