1. What is Child Support?

Child support is a financial contribution paid by one parent to the other to help cover the costs of raising their child. These costs include necessities such as housing, food, clothing, education, and healthcare. The purpose is to ensure that the child maintains a similar standard of living as they would if both parents were together.

2. How is Child Support Calculated in Maryland?

Maryland uses the “Income Shares Model” to determine child support, considering the income of both parents. This model assumes that a child should receive the same proportion of their parents’ combined income as they would if the family lived together.

Income Calculation: Both parents’ gross incomes are considered, including wages, bonuses, investments, and other earnings. Deductions may be allowed for taxes, social security, and health insurance premiums.

Basic Child Support Obligation: The combined income is used to find a basic support obligation from a guideline table, reflecting the estimated cost of raising a child based on the parents’ income and the number of children.

Adjustments: This amount can be adjusted for additional expenses like healthcare, education, and childcare.

3. Shared Custody and Its Impact on Child Support

In situations where custody is shared, the number of overnight stays the child has with each parent is factored into the calculation. If the child spends at least 35% of the year (128 overnights) with one parent, the support obligation may be adjusted to account for the shared financial responsibilities.

4. Modifying Child Support Orders

Child support orders in Maryland can be changed if there’s a significant change in circumstances, such as a change in income, job status, or the child’s needs. Either parent can request a modification through the court.

5. Enforcing Child Support Payments

The Maryland Child Support Administration (CSA) is tasked with enforcing child support orders. They have several methods to ensure payments are made:

Income Withholding: Automatically deducting child support payments from the paying parent’s wages.

Intercepting Tax Refunds: Using federal and state tax refunds to cover unpaid support.

License Suspension: Suspending the driver’s, professional, or recreational licenses of parents who fail to pay.

Contempt of Court: A parent who does not pay may be held in contempt of court, potentially facing fines or jail time.

6. Getting Legal Help and Support

Understanding and navigating child support laws can be challenging. Parents may find it beneficial to consult with a family law attorney to understand their rights and responsibilities fully. The Maryland CSA also offers resources and support to help parents manage child support matters.

Child support is essential in ensuring children have the necessary resources as they grow. Maryland’s child support laws and systems aim to provide fair and balanced financial support for the benefit of the child. Understanding these laws can help parents manage their responsibilities and protect their children’s well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions About Child Support in Maryland

1. What is child support, and who is required to pay it?

Child support is a financial obligation paid by a non-custodial parent to the custodial parent to help cover the costs of raising their child. Both parents are responsible for supporting their children, but typically, the parent who does not have primary custody makes the payments.

2. How is the amount of child support determined?

In Maryland, child support is calculated using the “Income Shares Model,” which takes into account both parents’ incomes, the number of children, and additional expenses such as healthcare and education. The model assumes that the child should receive a portion of the combined income proportional to what they would have received if the parents were living together.

3. Can child support amounts be changed?

Yes, child support orders can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a change in either parent’s income, employment status, or the child’s needs. A formal request for modification must be filed with the court.

4. What happens if a parent doesn’t pay child support?

If a parent fails to pay child support, the Maryland Child Support Administration (CSA) can take enforcement actions. These may include wage garnishment, interception of tax refunds, suspension of licenses, and in some cases, legal action such as contempt of court, which can result in fines or imprisonment.

5. How does shared custody affect child support?

In shared custody arrangements, the amount of child support may be adjusted based on the amount of time the child spends with each parent. If the child spends at least 35% of the time (128 overnights) with one parent, this shared time can influence the support calculation.

6. What should I do if I lose my job and can’t afford child support payments?

If you lose your job or experience a significant decrease in income, you should immediately file a request for a modification of your child support order with the court. It’s important to continue paying as much as possible until the court reviews your case.

7. Are there any additional costs included in child support?

Yes, child support can cover additional expenses such as healthcare, education, and childcare costs. These expenses are factored into the basic child support calculation.

8. Can child support be paid directly to the child?

No, child support payments are typically made to the custodial parent, who uses the funds to cover the child’s expenses. Payments are usually made through the state’s child support enforcement agency to ensure proper documentation and accountability.

9. When does child support end?

In Maryland, child support generally continues until the child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever is later, but not beyond the age of 19. However, support may be extended if the child has special needs or other circumstances warrant continuation.

10. How can I apply for child support services in Maryland?

You can apply for child support services through the Maryland Child Support Administration. This agency assists with locating the non-custodial parent, establishing paternity, setting up child support orders, and collecting and distributing payments.