Law Offices of Kevin L. Beard, P.A.

Free Initial Consultation: 410-929-7197

Free Initial Consultation:
Law Offices of Kevin L. Beard, P.A.

Free Initial Consultation: 410-929-7197

Free Initial Consultation:
Comprehensive, Compassionate And Results-Driven Representation

Changing child support when your ex earns more

On Behalf of | May 24, 2019 | Firm News |

If you are a single parent, it is likely that you have been paying child support for a significant amount of time. You will have been doing so in the belief that this helps the other parent to afford to provide your child with a high quality of life.

The question of which parent pays child support depends on the time that the child spends with each parent and the incomes of each parent. If parents split custody 50/50, the child support obligation from the higher earning parent will likely be less, but as long as each parent does not earn exactly the same, it is likely that some amount will be owed.

In contrast, if the lower earning parent has full custody of the child, the other parent will likely be obligated to pay a significant amount, because they do not spend money on their child on a daily basis.

Child support obligations will remain the same unless a request for a modification is filed. If you are paying child support but you have recently learned that your ex is now earning more than you, you should consider taking action to file for a child support modification. Depending on the circumstances, you may no longer owe child support or you may be owed child support from your ex.

What first steps can I take?

If you have a relatively accurate idea of your ex’s new income, the first thing that you can do is to enter all the details into Maryland’s child support calculator. This should give you a good idea of what you could be owed based on current circumstances. Using this information, you can decide whether you want to file for a child support modification.

Should I talk to my ex about my plans?

Whether you wish to communicate with your ex about this will depend on the relationship that you have with them. You may want to explain the situation before filing in order to preserve amicability and to prevent an argument.

If you are paying more child support than you should, it is important to understand the law in Maryland and to take appropriate action.

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