Child support can be a challenging and sensitive issue for families. Determining the right amount of support involves more than just financial calculations—it requires prioritizing the child’s well-being while addressing the financial responsibilities of the parents.
The process can sometimes feel overwhelming, as it considers various factors, such as income levels, custody arrangements, and the specific needs of the child.
At The Bishop Law Group, we understand how stressful and complicated this process can be. That is why we are here to stand by your side every step of the way. Our experienced team takes the time to explain each part of the process in clear and simple terms. We consider your unique circumstances and work diligently to provide personalized guidance that meets the needs of you and your family.
Our goal is to help you navigate this legal journey with confidence and peace of mind. By focusing on the details that matter most, we aim to ensure that the child receives the support they deserve while helping families work toward a fair and practical solution. Let us help make this process as smooth as possible, offering support, knowledge, and understanding at every turn.
If you are seeking an experienced and compassionate Baltimore family lawyer you can trust, call The Bishop Law Group today to discuss the details of your case. Our firm proudly serves clients throughout Maryland, including Baltimore, Ocean City, and other nearby areas.
Calculating Child Support in Maryland
Child support ensures that both parents contribute financially to the care and well-being of their children, even after a relationship ends. Maryland law establishes guidelines to calculate child support fairly, taking into account various factors such as income, custody arrangements, and the child’s needs.
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What Is Child Support?
Child support refers to financial payments made by the non-custodial parent—the parent who does not have primary custody of the child—to the custodial parent.
These payments are intended to help cover the costs of raising the child. Maryland uses a formula outlined in its Child Support Guidelines to determine the appropriate amount.
Factors Considered in the Guidelines
Maryland’s formula relies on the income shares model, which considers:
- The income of both parents
- The number of minor children they share
- Health insurance premiums for the children
- Any existing child support payments for other children
- Alimony payments received or paid by either parent
- Extraordinary medical expenses for the children
Additionally, the formula accounts for custody arrangements, including the amount of time each parent spends with the child. If each parent has the children overnight for more than 25% of the year (92 overnights or more), this is considered shared physical custody, and it may affect the child support calculation.
Information Needed to Calculate Child Support
To calculate child support accurately, the court requires the following details:
1. Each Parent’s Actual Monthly Income
This includes earnings from wages, salaries, bonuses, Social Security benefits, workers’ compensation, and alimony. However, temporary cash assistance, food stamps, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and other public assistance programs are excluded.
2. Each Parent’s Adjusted Actual Income
Adjusted income is determined by subtracting:
- Pre-existing child support obligations for other children
- Alimony payments made by the parent
3. Work-Related Childcare Costs
Expenses for daycare, before-school care, or after-school care while a parent is working are considered.
4. Health Insurance Costs
The cost of health insurance for the child is included.
5. Extraordinary Medical Expenses
Uncovered medical costs—such as orthodontics, dental treatments, asthma care, physical therapy, or counseling—are factored into the calculation.
6. Financial Statement
Parents requesting child support must submit a financial statement to help the court assess the family’s needs and determine an equitable amount.
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What Are “Imputed Income” and “Voluntary Impoverishment”?
Maryland law does not allow a parent to reduce their child support obligations by deliberately earning less income.
Voluntary Impoverishment
When a parent intentionally chooses to remain without adequate financial resources and this choice is not forced by external circumstances, they are considered voluntarily impoverished.
Imputed Income
In cases of voluntary impoverishment, the court may assign an imputed income, which represents the parent’s potential earning capacity rather than their actual income.
The court considers several factors when imputing income, such as:
- Age, health, education, and literacy
- Skills, work history, and job qualifications
- Local job market conditions and earning opportunities
- Assets and sources of income
- Any other relevant factors affecting the parent’s financial ability
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Can Child Support Exceed the Guideline Amount?
Yes, when the combined income of both parents exceeds $30,000 per month, the court is not required to use the standard guideline formula. Instead, the child support amount is determined based on the specific needs of the child.
Can the Court Decline to Order Child Support?
There are certain situations in which a court may choose not to establish a child support order:
- The parent responsible for paying child support lives with and financially supports the child.
- The parent has no financial resources, is unemployed, and is:
- Incarcerated for the duration of their obligation to provide child support
- Institutionalized in a psychiatric facility for the duration of their support obligation
- Permanently disabled and receives no income apart from SSI or Social Security Disability benefits
- Unable to work due to compliance with legal or medical rehabilitation programs
Need Assistance With Child Support?
If you, or someone you know, have questions about child support or believe you may be entitled to payments, consulting an experienced family law attorney is essential.
Contact The Bishop Law Group to schedule a consultation. Our team will guide you step by step through the process and ensure your rights are protected.
Call or text (410) 390-3101 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
