Advocates in Minnesota Child Support Cases
Child support in Minnesota follows a structured formula, but complexities can arise, such as determining a parent’s “potential” income or calculating income for a self-employed parent. In some cases, deviations from the standard support guidelines may be necessary. At Barna, Guzy & Steffen, our experienced Minnesota child support attorneys provide legal guidance to ensure a fair outcome. Call us at (763) 783-5146 for a consultation.
Types of Child Support
Basic Support
Basic support refers to a monthly cash payment made by one parent to the other to cover the child’s general welfare.
Medical Support
Medical support includes the division of medical and dental insurance premiums and the allocation of uninsured medical expenses, typically based on the parents’ relative incomes.
Daycare Support
Daycare support involves sharing work-related childcare expenses. Non-work-related childcare, such as recreational activities, is not covered under daycare support.
Minnesota Child Support Guidelines
The Minnesota Child Support Guidelines establish a framework for calculating child support payments. While these guidelines are presumed appropriate, courts may allow adjustments based on specific circumstances. Consulting a knowledgeable child support attorney is essential to understanding potential deviations.
Key Factors Considered in the Guidelines
- Gross monthly income (or potential income) of each parent
- Number of minor children
- Each parent’s parenting time percentage
- Costs for the child’s medical and dental insurance premiums
- Work-related daycare costs
A child support calculator, along with legal guidance, helps determine accurate support amounts.
Income Determination
For W-2 wage earners, income verification is straightforward with pay stubs. For self-employed, unemployed, or underemployed parents, the court may impute income based on earning history or estimate potential income based on education and job market opportunities.
Basic Support Examples
- Equal Income and Parenting Time: If both parents earn the same and share equal parenting time, no basic child support is exchanged. However, medical and childcare costs are still divided.
- Unequal Income, Equal Parenting Time: If one parent earns significantly more, they will pay reduced child support to the lower-income parent, reflecting the equal parenting arrangement.
- Primary Custody: A parent with more than 54.9% parenting time will typically receive basic support from the other parent, even if they earn more.
Medical and Daycare Support Examples
- Equal Income: Medical insurance premiums and uninsured medical expenses are split equally between the parents.
- Unequal Income: If one parent earns $100,000 annually and the other earns $50,000, the higher earner covers 67% of medical costs, while the lower earner pays 33%. Daycare expenses follow the same proportional split.
Eligibility for Child Support
In Minnesota, child support generally continues until the child turns 18 or graduates high school, whichever comes later (but not beyond age 20). Early emancipation, such as joining the military or becoming self-supporting, may end child support obligations earlier. Our attorneys can assist in determining emancipation status.
Child Support FAQ
What is child support?
Child support is a court-ordered payment from one parent to another to assist with child-rearing costs, covering needs like food, housing, clothing, education, and healthcare.
What are the types of child support in Minnesota?
- Basic Support: Monthly payments for a child’s general needs.
- Medical Support: Division of medical and dental insurance and uninsured expenses.
- Daycare Support: Allocation of work-related childcare expenses.
How is child support calculated in Minnesota?
Child support is determined based on:
- Each parent’s gross monthly income or potential income
- The number of minor children
- Parenting time allocation
- Costs for medical insurance and daycare
Courts may deviate from guidelines if justified by circumstances.
What is “potential income”?
If a parent is unemployed, underemployed, or self-employed, the court may estimate their potential income based on past earnings, educational background, and job opportunities.
What happens if parents have equal parenting time?
In cases of equal parenting time and equal incomes, no basic child support is exchanged. However, medical and daycare costs are still divided proportionally.
Who pays for medical and daycare expenses?
Medical and daycare expenses are typically divided based on income proportions. For example, if one parent earns 67% of combined income, they cover 67% of these costs.
How long does child support last?
Child support continues until the child turns 18 or graduates high school, whichever comes later (but not past age 20). Exceptions include early emancipation.
Can child support amounts be modified?
Yes, modifications may be granted if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a change in income, parenting time, or the child’s needs.
What happens if a parent doesn’t pay child support?
Non-payment can result in wage garnishment, suspension of driver’s licenses, or other enforcement actions.
How can I establish or modify child support?
To establish or modify child support, consult an experienced attorney or file the necessary paperwork with the court. Our child support lawyers in Minnesota can guide you through the process.
Contact Barna, Guzy & Steffen Today
If you need assistance with child support matters, our experienced attorneys are here to help. Call (763) 783-5146 today to schedule a consultation with a trusted Minnesota child support lawyer at Barna, Guzy & Steffen.