Illinois Child Support Calculation
Child support is a payment made by a parent to help cover the expenses of raising a child or children. In Illinois, child support is determined by state guidelines that consider the income of both parents, the number of children, and the amount of time each parent spends with the children. The law governing child support is outlined in the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act (IMDMA), specifically in Section 505. According to 750 ILCS 5/505, the court is required to consider the financial resources of both parents and the needs of the child when determining the amount of child support to be paid.
The court may also consider the following factors when determining the amount of child support:
The financial resources of the child
The standard of living the child would have enjoyed if the marriage or civil union had not been dissolved
The physical, emotional, and educational needs of the child
The financial resources, needs, and obligations of each parent
The child's age and any special needs
The child's physical and emotional condition
The child's educational needs
The availability of health insurance for the child
It is important to note that child support payments may be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a change in the income or needs of the child or a parent.
In Illinois, child support is generally paid until the child reaches the age of 18 or graduates from high school, whichever occurs later. In some cases, child support may continue after the age of 18 if the child is disabled or still in high school.
Both parents are responsible for supporting their children, even if they are no longer together. If a parent is not able to make their required child support payments, they may be able to request a modification of the support order. This can be done through the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services or by working with a private attorney.
It is important for parents to keep their child support payments up to date, as failure to do so can result in penalties such as wage garnishment or suspension of driver's licenses. It is also important for parents to communicate with each other and try to come to an agreement on child support, as this can help reduce conflict and ensure that the needs of the children are met.
In summary, child support is an important aspect of parenting and ensuring the well-being of children. Both parents are responsible for supporting their children, and it is important for parents to communicate and work together to ensure that the needs of the children are met.
