Child support was established by the State of Indiana as a means to ensure that both parents share in financially supporting their children in a way that is financially feasible to both. To accomplish this, a group of mathematicians created an algorithm that gathers a range of financial information about the parents (i.e. gross income, time each parent will care for the child or children, child support going to prior children, etc.), the number of children, and other factors to establish a basic child support obligation—the amount of weekly support that should go to provide the basic needs of the child or children.

The algorithm then apportions the amount each parent should pay of this basic support amount. This apportionment takes into account time spent caring for the children, amounts being paid for health insurance for the children and for childcare, and provision of controlled expenses. This is considered the default amount each parent should directly provide to the children. If one parent makes significantly more money than the other parent or provides significantly more care than the other parent, there may be a payment from one parent to the other. This is what is called the “child support payment.”

Confusion often arises when one parent pays a child support payment. They may believe that, because they pay money to the other parent—this is all they must pay to support the children. The real amount of support assigned to each parent is actually found on line 6 of the Child Support Worksheet. The amount the calculator assigns as child support obligation is simply the transfer of money from one parent to the other to meet the obligations amounts. This can be confusing.

The essential point is that, though one parent may pay money to the other parent, they will still be obligated to provide the necessary expenses of providing for their children in their home—i.e. food, clothing, shelter, transportation. Some parents believe that, because they are paying child support, they do not have to buy clothing. Or, that the other parent is now responsible for all transportation. This is not the case. The child support payment is designed merely to ensure children experience as closely as possible the same standard of living in both homes. Each parent remains responsible for providing for the needs of the children while in their care.

Do we have to use child support? Guardedly, no. Judges have the obligation to ensure parents provide for children, and the child support guidelines are given deference as the default means for providing that support. Yet, often family’s individual situation means the number coming from the child support calculation doesn’t truly reflect the financial needs of the family. Sometimes the number is far too low. Sometimes the number is far too high. Sometimes the parents want to provide for the family in a different manner.

In mediation, parents have the opportunity to determine how they will best provide for their children’s needs between the two of them. They can use a transition payment, a joint bank account, an apportion of given expenses, or other options the parents may decide. Judges retain discretion on final decisions for support of children, so the mediator must explain how the parents’ plan will meet children’s needs. Yet, judges generally recognize the value of parents working together and honor plans the parents decide will best meet children’s needs.

As you consider how best to provide for your children from two homes, we will be happy to help you find the best options. Please reach out for more information by emailing info@ResolutionMediationIn.com or call 317-793-0825.

All information provided here is for information only and not intended for advice. If you would like specific help regarding your situation, please consult an experienced professional who can speak to your needs. We would be happy to serve you—email info@ResolutionMediationIn.com or call 317-793-0825.