How is Child Support Calculated in Florida?
Child support is determined by state guidelines, with some of the major factors being:
- The number of children
- The income of each parent
- Costs associated with child care
- Costs associated with medical insurance
- Time spent with the children
To calculate child support in Florida, the courts take the view that both parents should share as equally as possible in three areas of parenting:
- Child support
- Time sharing
- Parental responsibility
In practice, however, the parent with a larger income typically covers a greater share of the expenses of raising the child. Support is usually paid to the parent who spends the most time with the child, but each case is different, and the income of both parents is part of the calculation. In the case of an unmarried mother, it is necessary to establish paternity before seeking child support.
There are many online child support calculators, but the truth is that they are not reliable. Calculating child support in FL is too nuanced and depends on a judge's view of your net income and parental responsibility. Therefore, child support cannot be accurately calculated by a Florida child support calculator tool you find online.
Our seasoned child support lawyer in Jacksonville, FL can help you fight for a fair child support order or assist you with that process and petition the court for support from the father of your child. We can also assist someone facing a paternity action when he is not the father of the child. Our firm has built a reputation for our legal skills and dedication to the best possible results for our clients.
Understanding Child Support Tax Implications in FL
In Florida, child support is not taxable to the recipient or tax-deductible by the payer. This means that, if you receive child support, you do not have to include it as income on your tax return or, if you pay child support, you cannot list it as a deduction on your tax return.
Modifying Child Support in Florida
Circumstances in everyone's lives can change suddenly and unexpectedly. Sudden unemployment, unanticipated medical emergencies, bankruptcy or domestic violence can justify a modification of a divorce decree. Dramatic changes in income, health or behavior can all be a reason to petition the court to modify a child support ruling.
In most circumstances, individuals petitioning for modification of child support payments will have to show proof of things like:
- Salary or wages
- Bonuses
- Disability benefits
- Workers' compensation
- Pension
- Income from royalties or trusts
- Social Security benefits
However, according to Florida Statutes § 61.30(c), if the amount of child support award differs by at least 10 percent but not less than $25, then the modification order will be approved without proof of a change in circumstances. To learn more about qualifying for a modification, please consult a divorce lawyer from our firm.
If you wish to modify your original child support agreement, you should first speak to a Jacksonville child support attorney at the Law Offices of Jason K.S. Porter, P.A. We can discuss the changes you have experienced and advise you on the best way to proceed.
Contact the firm for skilled and dedicated advocacy in your family law matters.
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I meet with Mr. Porter today, he was so helpful with my situation. He was kind and should true compassion for this situation. He gave me information I have not been able to get anywhere else and I have tried. He gave me hope that there is light at the end of this tunnel. I have a much better understanding of what I need to do and how to proceed with this situation. I am grateful that Mr. Porter gave me the time and attention that he did today. I would encourage anyone needing help in a criminal case, no matter how big or small go and see Mr. Porter, I can assure you that you will not be disappointed. Mr. Porter thank you for your time today and all of the information you provided me with, it is appreciated beyond belief.- Rena P.
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Mr. Jason Porter was very professional and detailed throughout the entire process. He was always available for any questions and if he wasn't sure about something, he would provide a quick turnaround time with the follow-up answer. He definitely knows his stuff and because of that, we were able to get a fair and reasonable outcome in the matter. His staff was very nice and professional as well. I would definitely refer anyone to him. Thanks again, Mr. Porter!!!- Humeshia B.
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My divorce litigated for close to two years as it was highly contentious and involved more complexities. Ms. Carlucci did a wonderful job of helping me understand and navigate the legal system. Ms. Carlucci set realistic expectations and was willing to listen to my concerns, questions, and thoughts. Divorce can be a very grueling and hard process. Ms. Carlucci provides great support and promotes collaboration with her clients.
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