If you are facing a divorce, you may be curious how the courts calculate child support payments. Though determining factors will vary from case to case, the end goal of the presiding judge will always center around the best interests of the kids. Below, the Torrington, CT, family law attorneys at The Law Offices of Conti & Levy discuss a few of the considerations impacting these figures.

4 Factors That Affect Child Support Calculations

1. Gross or Net Income

When determining child support payments, the judge will take both parental incomes into account. The figure may be gross or net and may include stock valuations, lottery winnings, future earnings, and housing allowances, if applicable. Though deductions often apply to income taxes and Social Security, loan payments typically have no impact on support calculations.  

2. Child Care Expenses

The amount a parent spends on child care to gain or retain employment can be deducted from their total earnings. The figure allowed for these expenses may be adjusted to reflect dependent care exemptions on federal and state income taxes on a state-by-state basis. 

3. Health Care 

In addition to support payments, the court will also determine which parent pays for health insurance. The amount spent on coverage will be added to the support total.

4. Additional Expenses

If your child is handicapped or requires special education, the court will take the associated expenses into account. The cost of parental visitation will typically be divided according to each parent’s income.

If you are in the midst of a custody battle or are unhappy with your current child support payments, a family law attorney at The Law Offices of Conti & Levy will fight for your best interests. Backed by over 75 years of combined experience, their lawyers provide expert guidance and representation across a variety of practice areas, including family law, criminal defense, and workers’ compensation. Contact their office online, or call (860) 482-4451 to speak with a representative today.