For fathers in Pensacola, child support can be a major financial issue. Knowing what the courts use to calculate support and how orders can be modified can help.
Calculating Child Support
Florida statutes uses the combined income of both parents to calculate child support.
It starts with calculating the gross income of each parent, including wages, government benefits, investment income, and spousal support. Deductions are taken from that gross amount for certain things, including government taxes, health insurance premiums, child support payments for other children, and alimony payments.
The combined net incomes from both parents is used to determine the total support for the child. The exact amount is determined by a formula provided by the Florida Legislature. For example, with
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A vexing fact for fathers in Pensacola, child support judges have very little leeway for changing those amounts. Limited exceptions include a child with significant health problems or a parent who has seasonal income variations.
Child Support Modification
A child support order will remain in effect until the child turns 18, graduates from high school, or the court orders a modification.
The courts can order a modification if there is a "significant and ongoing change in circumstance". Common reasons for modification include:
A parent is laid-off or forced to take a lower paying job.
A parent becomes disabled and is no longer able to work.
A parent is no longer spending significant time with the child, putting more financial strain on the other parent.
For fathers in Pensacola, child support can be a bear to manage, especially with a tight budget. However, things change and that means support amounts can change. Your ex got a better paying job. You had to take a pay cut just to keep your present job. One of your kids chose to move in with you permanently. All of these can change child support.
Call Kenny Leigh & Associates if you have questions about your child support