How Much Is Child Support in Illinois?
One of the most difficult things for parents during a separation or divorce can be navigating child support in Illinois. It’s important for parents to understand how child support cases are handled to ensure the financial stability and well-being of the child are handled accordingly. Child support is used solely for the support and care of the child, so it is essential for parents to secure the support their family deserves. The family lawyers at Strieker Law Firm have put together guidance on how child support payments are determined and how they may affect your situation.
Several factors can determine the amount of child support in Illinois owed to the caretaker of a child. Traditionally, flat percentages were calculated from the number of children and the paying parent’s net income. Effective 2017, Illinois child support laws now consider both parents’ incomes when calculating child support payments and consider several factors when determining the amount that may be ordered. After determining both parents’ net incomes, they are combined and put into an “income shares” chart, which is then multiplied by the percentages of each parent’s net income. This number shows how much money is allocated to the child.
The total “owed” by the parent with the majority of parenting time is not actually to be paid, as it is assumed that the amount is already spent caring for the child. On the other hand, the number given to the paying parent is the amount expected to be paid as that parent’s financial obligation. Find more specific information on an estimate of how much your child support payment would be by filling out a form from the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services.
Who Is Responsible for Child Support in Illinois?
There are several cases where child support can accommodate a family’s unique situation. When a parent has less than 146 overnights with a child per year, generally, that parent is making monthly payments to the custodial parent, even if his/her income is less than the custodial parent’s. Where the non-custodial parent has at least 146 days with the child annually, the child support situation can change significantly, resulting in the “custodial parent” having to pay child support to the other parent, depending on income. When a parent has at least 146 overnights annually, a different calculation formula is applied after determining the monthly cost to raise the child (per the income shares tables).
What Do Judges Look for in Illinois Child Custody Cases?
Illinois judges consider several factors when divvying child support payment responsibilities. The court will always keep the child’s financial, emotional, physical, and educational needs in mind in its decision. Child support payments could be modified for any special healthcare or educational needs of the children. Judges tend to lean toward the parent who has the ability to provide the child with the best household environment, a stronger emotional attachment, and the ability to meet the child’s educational and health needs.
Illinois Child Support Calculator and Lawyer
During a separation, a parent’s main concern is ensuring the care and well-being of their children. Coming to a decision on how much exactly child support payments will be and whether you intend to seek primary time or 50-50 parenting is a tough task. It is recommended to consult with a knowledgeable attorney during this process to give you the best advice possible regarding your child support in Illinois. At Strieker Law Firm, we help navigate these complex cases with advice to ensure fair calculations while protecting your rights. Reach out to us today to learn more about how Strieker Law can help you with your case.
