Child Support Questions Answered

 
Divorce is never easy, especially when children are involved. In addition to the emotional turmoil, there is the uncertainty about who is going to pay the costs of raising the children. The court system has rules in place that address these questions about child support, and they differ slightly by state. In the state of Alaska, child support is handled either through the court system or through Child Support Services Division (CSSD). Following are common questions regarding child support.
 
The laws are designed to ensure that both parents contribute financially to raising the child(ren). Court Rule 90.3 determines the amount to be paid depending on income, expenses, and custody. Raising children is expensive, and the rules are designed to ensure that this expense is allocated fairly.
Who Pays Child Support?

Generally, whichever parent does not have child custody pays support to the custodial parent. The amount is determined by a formula which takes into consideration the income of the non-custodial parent and certain expenses. If there is a legal divorce, child support and custody is determined by the court system. If there is no divorce or custody issues, child support is determined by CSSD. The non-custodial parent can either pay the custodial parent directly, or payment can go through CSSD.

How Much Will Child Support Be?

The amount of child support  to be paid is determined by either the court system or by CSSD. They both use the same formula based on the incomes of both parents and the custody and visitation set up. The parents can agree to pay more than the minimum that the formula stipulates, but they can not pay less. The formula is designed to ensure that both parents contribute to the cost of raising the child(ren).

Can the Amount of Child Custody be Changed?

You can petition the court or CSSD to change the amount of child support when the income changes or there is a change in custody. It is important to notify the court or CSSD as soon as the income level either goes up or down. Child support can not be changed retroactively.

How Long Does Child Support Last?

In the State of Alaska, the non-custodial parent must pay child support until the child is 19 and/or graduates from high school as long as the custodial parent is supporting the child.

Do you have questions about child support?

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