How Much is Child Support For One Kid in Georgia?

Figuring out child support in Georgia can be confusing. As a parent, you want what is best for your child, and understanding the financial aspects of raising them is an essential part of that responsibility. However, no one wants to pay more than is necessary, especially when trying to make ends meet after a divorce.

If you’re a resident of Georgia and you wonder, “How much is child support for one kid in Georgia?” – you’re not alone. Many parents like you are seeking clarity and guidance on this important matter.

Child support is not just about numbers; it’s about ensuring your child’s well-being and securing their future. Whether you’re concerned about how much you’ll have to pay or how much you’ll receive, our Atlanta child support lawyers can help.

Before you can accurately calculate how much child support is required for one child in Georgia, you’ll need to understand Georgia’s child support laws, the factors that influence child support calculations, and the guidelines set forth by the state. 

Child Support Laws in Georgia

Child support laws in the state ensure that both parents contribute financially to their child’s upbringing, even if they are no longer together. These laws are designed with the child’s best interests in mind, aiming to provide them with the financial support they need to thrive.

The primary governing laws and guidelines for child support in Georgia can be found in the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (OCGA), specifically in Title 19, Chapter 6. This law outlines the state’s approach to child support, including the factors considered when determining support amounts, the methods for calculating payments, and the procedures for enforcement and modification.

In cases where disputes arise regarding child support payments or enforcement, it’s advisable to seek the counsel of a knowledgeable child support lawyer who can provide guidance and representation to ensure the child’s best interests are protected.

Factors Affecting Child Support Amount in Georgia

When calculating child support in Georgia, several key factors come into play. Parents must understand these factors when seeking clarity on how much they might have to pay or receive. 

Income of Both Parents

One of the most significant determinants of child support in Georgia is the income of both parents. The court considers each parent’s gross income, including wages, salaries, bonuses, commissions, and even certain benefits like Social Security or disability payments. This figure forms the basis for calculating child support, representing the financial resources available for supporting the child.

Custody Arrangement

Another crucial factor is the custody arrangement. Georgia law recognizes two types of custody: physical custody and legal custody. Physical custody refers to where the child primarily resides, while legal custody involves decision-making authority regarding the child’s upbringing. The parent with primary physical custody typically receives more substantial child support payments from the non-custodial parent. The time-sharing schedule and the number of overnights the child spends with each parent also play a role in determining child support obligations.

Child’s Needs and Expenses

It’s important to remember that child support is intended to cover various expenses related to the child’s well-being. These expenses may include housing, food, clothing, education, healthcare, and extracurricular activities. The court considers the child’s specific needs and the associated costs when determining child support amounts.

Georgia Child Support Guidelines

In Georgia, the calculation of child support is primarily governed by the state’s official Child Support Guidelines. These guidelines provided a standardized framework for determining child support obligations and ensuring fairness in support calculations.

The Child Support Guidelines in Georgia utilize an income shares model. This model considers both parents’ incomes and aims to allocate child support in a manner that reflects the financial contributions of each parent to the child’s upbringing.

How does it work in practice?

The total child support amount is determined based on the combined income of both parents. Each parent’s percentage of the combined income is then used to calculate their share of the child support obligation. The non-custodial parent typically pays their share to the custodial parent to help cover the child’s expenses.

Calculating Child Support for One Child

Now, let’s break down the process of calculating child support for one child in Georgia. Here’s a step-by-step overview of how this calculation works:

1. Determine Combined Income: The first step is to calculate the combined income of both parents. This includes all sources of income, such as salaries, wages, bonuses, and other financial resources.
2. Find the Basic Child Support Obligation: The Child Support Guidelines provide a table that outlines the basic child support obligation based on the combined income and the number of children involved. Locate the appropriate figure for one child in your income range.
3. Allocate Child Support Obligation: Each parent’s share of the basic child support obligation is determined based on their percentage of the combined income. For instance, if the non-custodial parent earns 60% of the combined income, they would be responsible for 60% of the basic child support obligation.
4. Adjust for Additional Expenses: In addition to the basic child support obligation, parents may be required to share expenses such as health insurance, childcare, or extraordinary medical expenses. These additional costs are divided based on the same income percentage.

Contact Our Atlanta Child Support Attorneys Today

If you are worried about child support in Georgia, you need an experienced child support attorney on your side to help you. Whether paying child support or seeking to collect it, we can assist you and guide you through the legal process. 

At Hobson & Hobson, we want to empower you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions that are in the best interest of your child. We can do that best by meeting with you in an initial consultation. 

To schedule a consultation, please call us at (770) 284-6153 or fill out our confidential contact form. We are here to help you simplify the divorce process and take the burdens off of your shoulders.