Child Support
Definition of Child support:
Child support is a court-ordered finanical payment made by one parent to the other parent to assist with the costs of raising a child. The purpose of child support is to ensure that both parents are contributing to the financial needs of their child, regardless of whether the parents are married, divorced, or were never married.
Amount:
The amount of child support that is paid is typically determined by a forumla that takes into account various factos such as the income of both parents, the number of children, and the expenses associated with raising a child, such as health care and education costs. Our attorneys are experts with this formula and can ensure that the most efficient support is being paid.
Payments:
Child support payments are typically made on a regular basis, either weekly or montly. They are intended to cover the child’s basic needs, including food, clothing, and shelter. In some cases, child support may also be used to cover additional expenses such as child care, extracurricular activities, and other related costs.
Commonly Asked Questions
One parent is typically ordered by the court to pay child support to the other parent.
Yes, child support payments can be modified.
RCW (Revised Code of Washington) 26.09.170 provides the guidelines for modifying child support orders in the state of Washington. According to the RCW, a child support order can be modified if there has been a substantial change in circumstances since the order was issued.
However, it is important to note that a modification request can only be made once every two years unless there is a significant change in circumstances.
Examples of substantial changes in circumstances that may warrant a modification of child support include:
- A significant increase or decrease in either parent’s income.
- The child’s medical needs have changed.
- The child’s living arrangements have changed.
- The parenting plan has been modified.
If you believe that there has been a substantial change in circumstances that justifies a modification of your child support order, you should consult with us today. We are experienced family law attorneys and can advise you on the specific requirements and procedures for modifying child support.
Child support payments typically continue until the child reaches the age of majority, which is 18 in most states. However, in some cases, child support may continue beyond that age if the child has special needs or is still in school.
Yes, child support orders can be enforced across state lines through a process called interstate enforcement.
No, child support is intended to be used for the child’s needs such as food, clothing, and shelter.
No, child support payments are not tax-deductible for the payer and are not considered taxable income for the recipient. This is consistent with federal tax law, which does not allow child support payments to be deducted from the payer’s income for tax purposes.
Child support can be waived or terminated in limited circumstances. For example, child support may be terminated if the child is emancipated or if both parents agree to terminate the support obligation. However, termination or modification of child support requires a court order, and any such order must be based on a change in circumstances that warrants a modification. It’s important to note that waiving or terminating child support is not something that should be done lightly and should only be considered in certain circumstances. Our attorneys have many years of experience in this area of the law. It is awalys best to consult with one of our attorneys if you have any questions about child support obligations or modifications.
Warning: Child support payments are are legally enforceable, and failure to make these payments can result in legal consequences such as wage garnishment, seizure of property, or even imprisonment in extreme cases. Please take child support obligations seriously. We can work with you to ensure the proper amount of child support is being paid.