In the state of Georgia, child support law determines the amount of child support based solely on income—not on parenting time. The court may deviate from the state’s child support guidelines on a case-by-case basis. However, this typically only happens when the non-residential parent’s visitation time greatly exceeds what is considered standard and customary. For the court to consider this, the non-residential parent would have to prove that these parenting hours are outside the norm. Furthermore, proving these excessive hours of parenting would require specific evidence, not just parenting time estimates.
Georgia Child Support Formula
The child support formula for the state of Georgia is the same for sole and joint physical custody. Unlike many other states, Georgia gives no automatic parenting time credit that can reduce your child support amount. Again, the only way parenting time can influence the amount of child support you receive or pay is when the family court deems the visitations are substantially in excess of those usually approved by the court. The court will modify child support on a case-by-case basis when the situation warrants it.
Here are some additional factors the courts in Georgia will consider to come up with monthly payments:
- Residential parent’s monthly gross income.
- Non-residential parent’s monthly gross income.
- Number of children under age 18 or still in high school living in either home.
- Cost of work-related childcare.
- Cost of health insurance premiums.
- Pre-existing child support or alimony obligation by either parent.
Knowing Accurate Figures Helps Your Children
Your children’s financial stability will depend on how much support you receive and how much you will need to pay. You will likely want to have an idea of how much child support payments will be now. Knowing this will be helpful even if your court date is some time away.
There are calculators available online to help you determine an estimate for child support payments. However, to get the most accurate information, it is best to work with a qualified family law attorney who can guide you through the process, answer your questions, and give you proper estimates so you can better prepare for your child’s future.
Get Legal Advice Today
If you have more questions about child support laws, our family law attorneys in Alpharetta are here to help. Call Reeder Law firm today at (770) 475-2521 for a free, confidential consultation and legal assistance. You don’t have to search for answers on your own!
