Like every other state, Alabama recognizes that each child has a right to financial support from both parents, whether the split is a result of divorce or they were never married. To ensure consistency from one case to the next, child support in Alabama is calculated according to a formula contained in state law. While these calculations can get complex, the steps below will give you an idea of how much your child deserves.

How to Determine Child Support Amount in Alabama

1. Calculate the Gross Income

Start by adding up the income both parents earn on a monthly basis. For instance, if you make $2,000 per month and the other parent earns $3,000, your starting point will be $5,000.

2. Check the State Table

Alabama state law uses an established schedule of basic support obligations, which you can find here. According to the table, parents who together earn $5,000 will have a child support obligation of $769.

3. Add in Other Expenses

Costs like child care, health insurance, and extraordinary medical expenses are added after the basic obligation is calculated. For instance, if child care costs $200 and the child’s health insurance is $50, the total obligation share between both parents earning $5,000 per month is $1,019.

4. Calculate Each Parent’s Share

Each parent’s share of the obligation is based on their proportion of the monthly income. If the parent earning $2,000 per month has primary custody, the court assumes they will spend their share directly on the child. The other parent, who earns 60% of the total income between both parents, will be ordered to pay $611.40, or 60% of $1,019.

5. Make Room for Deviations

Circumstances often deviate from the presumptions made by the formula, so courts have the discretion to make their own decisions. For instance, if you share custody or one parent incurs substantial costs in transferring the child, the judge may raise or lower the child support amount.

If you’re going through a divorce or involved in a child support dispute, Donna C. Crooks Attorney At Law has the legal experience and dedication to help achieve your goals. They’ve been serving families throughout Dothan and Enterprise, AL, for over 20 years, building a reputation for making legal disputes civilized. Visit their website for an overview of their services, get more legal tips on Facebook, or call (334) 598-9534 for a phone consultation today.