How Child Support Is Calculated in Illinois

Whether they are married or not, both parents in a child support case have to support their children financially post divorce and separation. Even though they can enter into agreements specifying the amount they need to give, they cannot interrupt state guidelines. This is understandable because their children have the right to receive support – not the parents.

How Child Support is Calculated In Illinois

In the past, courts in Illinois used to calculate child support on the basis of a specific percentage- based formula. All of that changed in 2017, when the formula was changed to an income-based model instead.

The main reason for the update was to ensure the court could take both parents’ incomes into account as well as the amount they spent on their children if they lived together. Other expenses added to this amount are based on the specific needs of the children, such as:

• Extracurricular activities and school-based expenses.
• Insurance premiums (excluding medical expenses, which are paid out of pocket).
• Expenses for childcare, such as camps.

The sum of these is the total financial obligations the parents have to meet. In some cases, courts in the state may also order the parents to pay more than the minimum requirements set by law. This usually happens if it is in the best interest of the children. To determine that amount, the court looks at the following:

• The academic, physical and emotional needs of the children.
• The financial needs of the children, as well as the financial responsibilities of the parents.
• The standard of living the children would have had access to if the parents were together.

Once a child support order has been made in court, it cannot be changed unless the court mandates modifications, according to change in circumstances. Also, the order will end when the children who are receiving child support turn 18 or graduate from high school. The termination of the order will still stand if they are 18 and still attend high school.

If you are looking for a child support attorney in Hinsdale, IL who can ensure your children get the child support they need from your ex, get in touch with attorney Dan Walker at Dan Walker Law Office today. We years of experience representing parents such as yourself and can help you get the results you are looking for. Get in touch with us for a consultation today.