Child support is determined by a formula encompassed in the Michigan Child Support Guidelines. The formula takes into account several factors including the income of each parent, the parenting time schedule, tax deductions, health insurance costs, and the number of children. We are here to assist you in understanding these important factors as you go through this process.
Income of Each Parent
Before child support can be calculated, the court must determine the appropriate income to be included in the formula for each parent. Your annual income may be easy to determine if you are employed and receive a W-2 or regular paycheck. Determining income can be more complicated if you are self-employed, an independent contractor or are not presently employed. The amount of income each parent earns has a significant impact on child support.
Parenting Time / Number of Overnights
Child support also takes into account the parenting time schedule and the number of overnights each parent has with the children. Sometimes if a parent is not able to exercise overnight parenting time, such as if you work third shift, a deviation from the child support formula may be appropriate.
Uninsured Medical Expenses
Child support also includes a monthly contribution to the children’s uninsured medical expenses. A party paying child support will pay base child support plus an additional contribution toward the out-of-pocket medical expenses as part of their child support payment.
If you have questions about child support or would like assistance in calculating child support, our attorneys can assist in preparing child support calculations, filing motions to modify child support when needed and in preparing child support orders.
