Child Support in Washington:
In Washington State, child support is calculated based on the Washington State Child Support Schedule, which takes into account several factors including each parent’s income, the number of children, and certain expenses related to the child’s care. Here’s a general overview of how child support is calculated:
- Determine Gross Income: Both parents’ gross incomes are calculated, which includes wages, salaries, bonuses, commissions, self-employment income, and other sources of income. You must provide proof of each source of income through showing tax returns, W-2 forms, paystubs, bank statements, and other financial records.
- Adjustments to Income: Certain adjustments may be made to the gross income, such as deductions for mandatory retirement contributions, health insurance premiums, union dues, social security, income tax, and other deductions.
- Calculate Basic Child Support Obligation: The Washington State Child Support Schedule provides a table that determines the basic child support obligation based on the combined income of both parents and the number of children.
- Allocate Child Support Obligation: Each parent’s share of the basic child support obligation is determined based on their proportionate share of the combined income. The proportionate share of combined income refers to each parent’s portion of the total combined income of both parents. It is calculated based on the percentage of each parent’s income relative to the total combined income, which is known as their proportional share. For example, if one parent earns $40,000 per year and the other parent earns $60,000 per year, the total combined income is $100,000. The proportionate share of combined income for the first parent would be 40% ($40,000 divided by $100,000), and for the second parent would be 60% ($60,000 divided by $100,000).
- Consider Additional Expenses: In addition to the basic child support obligation, parents may be required to contribute towards certain additional expenses such as childcare costs, health care expenses, and extraordinary educational expenses. These will also likely be paid through the parties’ proportional shares.
- Deviation Factors: The court may consider certain deviation factors that could justify a deviation from the standard child support calculation, such as high income levels, shared custody arrangements, or costly treatment for special needs of a child.
- Calculate Net Child Support Obligation: After considering all relevant factors and adjustments, the net child support obligation for each parent is calculated.
- Finalize Child Support Order: Once the child support amount is determined, a child support order is issued by the court, specifying the amount of child support to be paid by the non-custodial parent to the custodial parent.
It’s important to note that child support calculations can be complex, and it’s advisable to seek assistance from a family law attorney or use the Washington State Child Support Calculator provided by the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services to ensure accurate calculations. Additionally, child support orders can be modified if there are significant changes in circumstances, such as changes in income or the child’s needs. However, child support orders typically cannot be modified unless at least two years have elapsed since the last final child support order was entered. Under certain conditions it is one year. Talk to an attorney to find out the difference.
For issues regarding Post-Secondary support, see our page addressing it.
