Child Support

     Child support in Massachusetts, in most circumstances, is determined by a mathematical formula and the calculations are based upon Child Support Guidelines.

     This formula takes into account:

     a.) the non-custodial parent's weekly income from all sources;
     b.) the number and ages of the child or children;
     c.) the custodial parent's income; and
     d.) who pays for family medical insurance.

     Generally, child support must be paid where:

     a.) there is a child under the age of 18 years; OR

     b.) there is a child over the age of 18 years but under the age of 22 years, AND is residing with a parent and is principally (financially) dependent upon that parent for the necessaries of life (food, clothing, shelter, etc.); OR

     c.) there is a child over the age of 18 years but under the age of 23 years, AND is a full time student in a post-secondary school educational program.

There are several on-line sites which provide automatic calculations for you. Simply fill-in the appropriate information, and the Child Support Guidelines amount will be calculated for you. One good site is found at the Massachusetts Department of Revenue site. Click on the BLUE ball.