Child support in Illinois follows specific guidelines, but several factors can affect the final amount. Understanding these factors can help you anticipate potential obligations or modifications.
Income of both parents
Illinois uses an “income shares” model to calculate child support. This means both parents’ incomes are combined to determine the total amount needed to support the child. The court then assigns each parent a portion of that amount based on their percentage of the combined income. If one parent earns significantly more, they will likely pay a larger share.
Parenting time and custody arrangements
The amount of time a parent spends with their child affects support payments. If both parents share custody equally, payments may be lower or adjusted. When one parent has primary custody, the other parent typically pays more to ensure the child’s financial needs are met. Courts review parenting schedules and may adjust support if there is a significant shift in time spent with the child.
Additional child-related expenses
Child support covers basic needs like food, clothing, and housing, but other costs can influence payments. Courts may consider expenses such as health insurance, medical bills, daycare, extracurricular activities, and education costs. If a child has special medical or educational needs, support amounts may be adjusted to cover those expenses.
Changes in financial circumstances
If a parent experiences a major change in income, the courts may modify their child support. Losing a job, receiving a promotion, or having another child can impact the amount owed. Courts require proof of financial changes before approving adjustments. Failure to report increased earnings could result in legal consequences.
Age of the child and support duration
In Illinois, child support generally continues until the child turns 18 or graduates high school, whichever comes later. However, payments may extend beyond that if the child has disabilities or needs assistance with college expenses. Courts may order parents to contribute to higher education costs based on their financial ability.
Understanding these factors can help you better prepare for child support obligations. If circumstances change, you may request a modification to ensure the payments remain fair.
