How much do parents pay for child support?
When parents decide to divorce or separate, children have to split their time. One parent will likely see their child more often and have more regular custody, and the other may have visitation time. Children may no longer live in a two-parent household and may be under one parent’s care most of the time, but that doesn’t mean that they shouldn’t have the financial support of both parents.
Child support is an important part of a child’s life after a divorce. That support may cover many things such as:
- Schooling
- Medical care
- Extracurricular activities
- Food
- Shelter
- Clothing
The funds might also go into a college fund or be used for extras to make the child’s home more comfortable and safer for them.
How much will child support cost a parent?
The amount of child support a parent will pay depends on how many children they have as well as other factors. Factors that may be included in these calculations include:
- The net income of both parents
- The educational needs of your children
- The medical needs of your children
- The standard of living for your children prior to divorce or separation
There is a simple calculation available in Illinois to help you calculate how much should be paid. Based on the state’s statutory guidelines, noncustodial parents with a single child will pay 20% of their income toward support. For two children, that rises to 28%, while three rises to 32%. Four children is set at 40%, and five is at 45%. Finally, six or more is around 50%. These guidelines are reviewed every four years to update them as needed.
Child support is an obligation because children deserve to have the support they need from both parents. Financial support can help them have opportunities that they may not have without support from both parents.
Even if you and your ex share custody time nearly equally, the noncustodial parent may need to pay. It’s a good idea to look into your specific circumstances to determine the amount of support that is needed and to set up a schedule to receive that for your child.
