What Makes Child Support Unique In Illinois

Many divorcing and separating parents have questions about their expected child support payments. These support agreements can use many factors and a complex formula to determine the total payment. The attorneys at Reich, Jumbeck, Stole & Reeb, LLP, understand that stress that these payments can cause for parents so we created this page to explain what determines Illinois child support payments.

The Factors Used To Determine Child Support Payment Amounts

Illinois child support payments use strict guidelines when determining the total amount. The court takes into account the net income of both parents and the life circumstances of both the parents and children to calculate payments. A family court judge will generally follow the Illinois child support guidelines unless extraordinary circumstances, such as a life or death medical expense, present themselves.

The Illinois family court uses many factors when determining child support payments, including:

• The income and financial resources of both parents
• Other child support payments that a parent pays
• The cost of a child’s education and extracurricular activities
• The custody arrangement and time spent with each parent
• The physical and emotional needs of a child
• The cost of a child’s medical needs and health insurance

Even if parents create a child support agreement outside of the courtroom, a judge must still approve it. A judge will not approve a child support agreement unless it meets the state’s guidelines.

Making Changes To A Child Support Payment

Once the court establishes a child support agreement, the order may be difficult to change. Parents on either side of a child support modification case must prove that they experienced a substantial change in circumstances to qualify for a payment adjustment. These circumstances can include the loss of a job or a recent disability. A parent who believes that they experienced a change in circumstances, must file a motion to the family court to begin the process.

Learn More About Your Expected Payments

Our Joliet firm can help you calculate your expected payments and give you an idea of what to expect for your case. People in Will, Kendall, DuPage and Grundy counties can call 815-770-2669 or email us to speak with a knowledgeable lawyer.