What is Child Support?
Child support is for the child. Theoretically, when parents are no longer together each parent contributes to the raising of that child. Payments are used for housing, food, clothing, and other expenses that are needed to raise a child. Usually, the amount that is given from one parent to another is just for the basics and much more money is really needed.
How is Child Support Calculated?
Child Support is calculated under Florida Statute 61.30 and is based on both parties’ income and the time each parent spends with the child. Essentially, if the minor child is with one parent that parent is providing the necessities of life. There are child support guidelines the court follows when calculating child support and when one parent is not working the income that may be used is minimum wage for that parent.
Can it be Changed?
Child support can always be modified if a parent’s income goes up or goes down. Generally, the parent who is making more or less money should tell the other party about his or her situation. Child support is for the benefit of the child and support the child is supposed to receive as though the parents had not separated. However, there has to be a certain amount of change for modification to occur.