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Dealing with child custody issues can be complicated and emotionally trying for all parties involved, which is why it’s essential to find a child support lawyer to help you through the process. Whether you are the parent receiving payments or making them, you probably have questions about how the system works in Wisconsin. To help you understand, below are some common questions about this family law issue.

Common Questions About Child Support

How are child support payments calculated?

Family law courts in Wisconsin use a percentage formula to determine fair child support arrangements. These calculations depend on several factors, including the monthly income of each parent, the number of children they have together, and the ages of their children.

The court may also use their discretion to evaluate other factors and adjust amounts accordingly. A child support lawyer can help you estimate what your monthly payments may be depending on your circumstances.

How long do you have to pay child support?

Most states, including Wisconsin, require noncustodial parents to pay child support until their kid has graduated from high school and turns 18, or until they are 19 if still in high school or working on a high school equivalency course. In some cases, child support payments may be extended through college, but only if they are expressly included in the divorce settlement. 

Can a child support order be modified?

Wisconsin child support lawyerOnly the court can change established child support orders. If a parent wishes to alter an order, they must file paperwork to request a modification, which is a process a child support lawyer can help with. Typically, the court requires a substantial change in circumstances to grant a new order within the first three years, such as the loss of a job or a serious illness.

Is child support taxable?

Child support payments are not considered part of a parent’s annual income, which means you should not have to pay income tax on any payments you receive. Likewise, parents who pay child support cannot deduct them as expenses.


For more information about child support laws in Wisconsin, contact O'Neill Law Firm, LLC. For more than 20 years, these seasoned divorce and child support lawyers have helped clients in the La Cross area resolve family law disputes fairly and efficiently. Visit their website to learn more about their practice areas and call (608) 519-3551 to speak with an attorney today.

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