The Basics of Child Support in Georgia

Jonathan D. Forbes, Associate

The Basics of Child Support in Georgia

What is child support? Child support is court-ordered monetary support paid by one parent to the other parent whom has custody of the child or children after the parties divorce. Child support can also be ordered by a court on a temporary basis during divorce proceedings.
 

How is child support calculated? Typically, the noncustodial parent will pay monthly child support to the parent who has physical custody of the child(ren). Georgia law generally provides for the calculation of the child support amount by taking into consideration the gross incomes of both parents and then calculating the amount of support on a pro rata (“proportional”) basis. Also taken into consideration in figuring the amount is the cost of the children’s health insurance and day care, travel expenses of the noncustodial parent, and the parenting time exercised by the noncustodial parent.
Divorcing parents will also need to provide for health care costs that are not typically covered by insurance, such as co-pays and deductibles.
An attorney can help you calculate an estimated child support amount.
 

What documents are required for the court? The court requires several documents including a “Child Support Addendum” and a “Child Support Worksheet”. These documents can often be complicated and the assistance of an attorney is often recommended by the court.
 

When does child support end? Georgia law provides that child support continues until the child turns 18, dies, marries, or becomes emancipated, whichever occurs first. Note, however, that the court, in the exercise of its sound discretion, may direct either or both parents to provide child support to a child who has not previously married or become emancipated, who is enrolled in and attending high school even though that child may be over 18. However, in all circumstances, financial assistance shall not be required after a child turns 20 years of age.