As a divorced parent, it is likely that you have periodic child support payments that you must make in support of your child’s well-being if you are not the primary custodian. There is not a one-size-fits-all payment amount that all child support plans adhere to – it varies on a case-by-case basis.
This raises the question as to whether or not your child support obligations will increase if you get a pay raise at work. You can plan ahead for any potential changes in your child support payments by knowing exactly what circumstances might cause you to pay more to your co-parent.
Does a raise in income affect my child support obligations?
The State of Connecticut outlines comprehensive child support information for parents, including the process of how the courts calculate support orders. Child support payments vary based on your overall income, meaning that a raise can certainly increase the amount you must pay. Conversely, a loss of income can result in lower child support obligations.
What other factors affect what I pay in child support?
Your income is what determines your child support payment amounts, but there are other factors that contribute to your overall income aside from what you receive in your paycheck. Other factors that can affect your child support obligations include the various taxes you pay, your insurance premiums and any payments deemed mandatory by a government court or by your employer for work-related purposes.
In most cases, getting a raise will likely result in an increase in your regular child support payments. If you neglect to report your change of income, you may need to defend yourself against legal action initiated by your spouse.