Child Support Agreement Illinois: What You Need To Know
Child support is an important issue that arises when parents separate or divorce. In the state of Illinois, there are specific guidelines and laws that govern child support. Understanding these rules is crucial for both parents to ensure that their child receives the necessary support. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about child support agreement in Illinois.
What is Child Support?
Child support is a recurring payment that one parent makes to the other parent for the financial support of their children. The payments are meant to cover the basic needs of the child, such as food, clothing, shelter, education, and medical care. The amount of child support is calculated based on the income of both parents, the number of children, and other relevant factors.
How is Child Support Calculated in Illinois?
In Illinois, the child support payments are calculated based on the Income Shares Model. This model takes into account the income of both parents and the number of children. The basic formula is as follows:
Child Support = (Combined Income x Percentage) / Number of Children
The percentage used in the formula depends on the number of children and the income of the parents. For example, if the combined net income of the parents is $10,000 and they have one child, the child support payment would be $1,096 per month. If they have two children, the payment would be $1,665 per month.
What Does the Child Support Cover?
The child support payments are meant to cover the basic needs of the child, such as food, clothing, shelter, education, and medical care. However, the payments can also cover other expenses, such as extracurricular activities, childcare, and transportation. The payment is made to the parent who has primary custody of the child.
What Happens if the Parent Fails to Make Child Support Payments?
If a parent fails to make the child support payments, there are several consequences. The unpaid child support can accumulate interest, and the parent may be subject to legal action, such as wage garnishment, loss of driver`s license, or even imprisonment. The parent may also be required to pay the legal fees of the other parent.
How Can You Modify a Child Support Agreement in Illinois?
If the parents` financial situation changes or there is a change in the child`s needs, they can modify the child support agreement. Both parents need to agree on the modification and submit it to the court. The court will review the agreement and decide whether to approve it.
Conclusion
Child support is an important issue that must be addressed when parents separate or divorce. In Illinois, child support payments are calculated based on the Income Shares Model, which takes into account the income of both parents and the number of children. The payments are meant to cover the basic needs of the child, and the parents can modify the agreement if there is a change in their financial situation or the child`s needs. It is important to understand the rules and regulations surrounding child support to ensure that your child receives the necessary support.
