Child support
by Di Goodman
Published on August 21, 2025 · 2 min read
What is child support?
Child support is a legal financial obligation that requires one parent to make regular payments to the other parent or caregiver to help cover the costs of raising a child. It is typically ordered as part of a divorce, separation, or custody case and is intended to ensure that both parents contribute financially to their child’s needs, even if they no longer live together. Child support is focused solely on the well-being of the child, not the personal relationship between the parents.
Key elements of child support
- Purpose: Child support helps provide for a child’s basic needs, including housing, food, clothing, education, healthcare, and other essentials.
- Who pays: Usually, the noncustodial parent (who spends less time with the child) supports the custodial parent. However, arrangements can vary depending on parenting time and income levels.
- How it’s calculated: Most states use specific formulas based on each parent’s income, the number of children, custody arrangement, and additional expenses like daycare or medical care.
- Duration of payments: Child support usually continues until the child turns 18, graduates from high school, or reaches the age of majority as defined in that state. In some cases, it can extend further, especially for children with disabilities.
- Modification: Child support orders can be modified if circumstances significantly change, such as income, employment, or parenting time.
- Enforcement: If a parent doesn’t pay court-ordered support, enforcement tools may include wage garnishment, license suspension, tax refund interception, or contempt of court charges or even jail time.
What else you should know
Child support is separate from alimony or spousal support. Even if the custodial parent has a high income or remarries, the noncustodial parent may still be required to pay. Courts prioritize the child’s financial stability and aim to maintain consistency in their living conditions.
Child support can be arranged through a formal court order or, in some cases, through a voluntary agreement approved by a judge. To ensure fairness and legal enforceability, it’s important for both parents to understand their rights and responsibilities. In some cases, speaking with a lawyer can be helpful.
