In Illinois, courts use specific guidelines to calculate child support. These guidelines are meant to be fair, but sometimes the amount determined by usual calculations is not enough. Judges can order higher child support when a child’s needs go beyond the basic formula. If you have questions about paying or receiving child support payments, our experienced DuPage County, IL child support lawyers can answer them.
What Is the Basic Formula for Child Support in Illinois?
When calculating child support, Illinois uses an “income shares” model, under 750 ILCS 5/505, that looks at both parents’ incomes and how much each contributes to the total household income.
They also consider factors like how many children you have, how much you pay for health insurance or child care, and how much time you both spend with your child. The goal is to make sure both parents share responsibility for the costs of raising their child.