Raising a child after divorce brings unique challenges, and understanding child support is one of them. As a divorced father, you might wonder how the court decides how much you need to contribute.
Understanding the process of calculating child support can empower you to make informed decisions for your family’s future. This blog explains the process and factors that influence child support calculations, giving you the insights you need to face the system with confidence.
How much should you pay?
In Texas custody arrangements, the child typically lives with the custodial parent, while the obligor or the non-custodial parent pays child support.
While there are various factors that impact the child support amount, the most important is the obligor’s net resources. Understanding what constitutes net resources is crucial for accurately calculating child support.
Net resources include most types of income the paying parent receives. This encompasses employment income such as:
- Wages
- Salaries
- Tips
- Commissions
- Bonuses
Other sources include retirement, Social Security and Veterans Affairs (VA) disability benefits. Unemployment and workers’ compensation benefits also impact the amount of child support you must pay.
When calculating net resources, courts permit certain deductions from employment income. These deductions include some taxes and the cost of the child’s health, dental or medical insurance if you are the one paying for it.
Protect your rights when paying child support
Understanding this process empowers you to advocate effectively for yourself and your child. By staying informed and seeking the proper legal guidance, you can ensure that your contributions are fair and reflect your situation. Remember, protecting your rights not only benefits you but also supports a stable and nurturing environment for your child.