Calculating Child Support in New Jersey
When it comes to calculating child support, each state has its own rules. In New Jersey, an income-based formula is used in most cases to determine the amount of support each parent owes. The estimated net incomes of the parents is the primary consideration in the formula. However, certain factors can impact the amount of child support owed. For assistance in calculating child support in New Jersey and understanding your rights during this legal process, contact an experienced family law attorney from Moskowitz Law Group, LLC.
How Is Child Support Calculated?
In New Jersey, child support is calculated in most cases using a formula called the Child Support Guidelines. The Guidelines first produce a rough calculation of the parties’ individual and combined net incomes after taxes. This income is not limited to earned income. It can also include alimony payments and other unearned income, such as dividends and Social Security benefits. Each party’s net income is further adjusted based on certain allowable deductions, such as mandatory union dues, pension contributions, and support obligations to other dependents. If either party pays for the children’s health insurance, the premium is allocated between the parties. The calculation is also impacted by how many children are the subject of the support order. Child support is typically paid by the non-custodial parent to the custodial parent. The amount of overnight parenting time that the non-custodial parent has under a parenting plan impacts how much child support is paid. The calculation is further adjusted if each parent has the same amount of overnight parenting time as the other parent.
Factors That May Impact the Amount of Child Support Owed
Several factors may impact the amount of child support that either parent owes, including the amount of overnight parenting time each parent has with the child. Generally, the more time that a non-custodial parent has with the child, the less they pay. Any costs for work-related childcare can also impact the calculation. Extraordinary expenses, such as expenses related to the special needs of a child, can further impact the calculation.
A parent’s child support obligations to other children or other child dependents from another relationship can also impact the amount of child support ordered.
How a Lawyer Can Help You Calculate Child Support
Many New Jersey parents enlist the help of an experienced family law attorney to obtain the most accurate calculations possible when determining child support. This attorney can help their client understand the State’s Child Support Guidelines, ensure that they have provided accurate income and financial information, and negotiate with the other parent or the other parent’s attorney to resolve child support disputes.
Child support orders can be modified based on a substantial, involuntary, and permanent change in circumstances, including changes in either parent’s income or a change in the child’s needs. A family law attorney can also help parents to modify their support agreement to reflect their current situation. They can also assist with enforcing child support obligations in situations where a parent is not receiving the support that has been ordered.
Need Help Calculating Child Support in New Jersey? Contact Moskowitz Law Group, LLC
Under New Jersey law, both parents have an obligation to contribute a fair amount to the support of their child. However, determining the fair amount of support to be paid is a complex process that involves gathering financial documents and being aware of the various factors that can increase or reduce a child support obligation.
To learn more about calculating child support in New Jersey or for answers to the questions you have about child support issues, contact Moskowitz Law Group, LLC. We have helped parents with all types of incomes and unique situations and have a deep understanding of the details and emotions that come with this process. We prioritize communication, information, and forward progress.
