Child Support
Florida calculates child support using the Florida Child Support Guidelines, a formula designed to provide children with the financial resources they would have had if their parents lived together.
Key Factors in Calculation
1. Combined Monthly Income: Total gross income from both parents, including wages and bonuses.
2. Number of Children: More children increase the total support amount.
3. Parenting Time: The number of overnight stays with each parent affects the obligation; more overnights typically mean less support owed.
4. Childcare and Health Insurance Costs: Expenses like daycare and health insurance are factored in.
5. Extraordinary Expenses: Includes medical needs, private school tuition, or tutoring.
Example Calculation
Scenario:
• Parent A earns $4,000/month; Parent B earns $2,000/month.
• One child spends 200 overnights with Parent A and 165 with Parent B.
• Childcare costs: $500/month; health insurance: $150/month.
Steps:
1. Combined income: $6,000.
2. Parent A contributes 67%; Parent B contributes 33%.
3. Base obligation for one child: $1,200/month.
4. Add $500 for childcare and $150 for health insurance: $1,850 total.
5. Parent A owes 67% ($1,239.50); Parent B owes 33% ($610.50).
6. Adjust for parenting time: Parent B pays $600–$800/month.
Adjustments and Modifications
Courts may adjust the amount if there are exceptional circumstances, like high medical expenses or financial hardship. Child support can also be modified if there is a substantial, material, and unforeseen change, such as income changes or new parenting schedules.
At Miller Legacy Law, we ensure accurate calculations and advocate for fair outcomes. Contact us to learn more.
