[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]February 15, 2012

By Brad Smith

The Federal Child Support Guidelines have been in effect since May 1, 1997. The table was amended in May 1, 2006. In 2006 there was, in some situations, a quite dramatic increase in the amount of child support.

The tables have been amended once again effective December 31, 2011. There has not been a comparable dramatic increase in child support.

A few points of comparison between the 2006 and 2012 tables:

1. The low income threshold has been increased to $10,820. A person earning less than $10,820 does not pay child support.
2. The changes in the amount of child support are quite modest, sometimes as little as $2 per month.
3. Generally lower income payors will see a modest reduction in child support. For example, the child support for a person with an income of $25,000 will go from $211 to $200 for one child. The child support for a person with an income of $50,000 will go from $753 to $743 for two children.
4. Generally higher income payors will see a modest increase. For example, the child support for a person with an income of $75,000 will go from $680 to $682 for one child. The child support for a person with an income of $100,000 will go from $1,404 to $1,416 for two children.

If the child support is determined for a period of time prior to January 1, 2012, the prior 2006 tables will still apply. The 2006 tables still apply for child support payable prior to January 1, 2012. But ongoing child support January 1, 2012 or later should apply the new tables.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]