Child support is a complex issue that many divorcing parents misunderstand. As a divorcing parent in New York, the courts will likely instruct you to contribute to the upbringing and wellbeing of your child regardless if the child is in your custody. It is common to have questions about the process, as well as the court’s expectations, and it is beneficial to be prepared before you continue with proceedings.
The best way to gain comprehensive insight is to contact a Queens divorce attorney. At Elliot Green Law Offices, we specialize in matters pertaining to family law, including custody and child support. We can work with you to help you avoid making mistakes that could compromise your interests. Call us today at 718-260-8668 to schedule a free 30-minute consultation, and read on for the answers to three common questions regarding child support in New York.
- What exactly is child support?
Child support is essentially money that one parent gives to the other in order to assist him or her with the upbringing of their child. According to the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, there are certain income levels that may impact the child support obligation, but generally speaking, parents must contribute to various expenses. These include medical and educational expenses, as well as childcare if the custodial parent works during the day.
- For how long do I have to pay child support?
Parents typically pay child support until their child is over the age of 21. According to Legal Aid, children reach the age of majority at 18 years old, but this is simply for issues such as visitation and custody.
For the purposes of child support, 21 is the legal cutoff age. Once the child is 21, parents have no legal obligation to continue paying for the child unless they have reached a subsequent agreement with their spouse.
- How much will I pay?
The New York courts will determine the amount of child support based on both parents’ annual incomes. They will also take into account the number of children the parents have.
The amount owed changes every two years, and if the combined income is below a certain threshold, the court will follow a basic formula. If your combined income is higher than the threshold, they may use the same formula, but they will stop at the threshold limit.
For an accurate idea of how much you will pay, it is important to consult an expert family lawyer. At the Elliot Green Law Offices, we can work with you throughout your divorce or child custody proceedings and help ensure that you make the best decisions given the circumstances.
We offer a free initial consultation to all new clients, and we are available 24 hours per day to answer any questions you might have. Call us today at 718-260-8668 to schedule an appointment.
