Do you have questions or concerns about child support? If so, read on to learn more about child support guidelines in Massachusetts.

Massachusetts child support guidelines:

Massachusetts follows these guidelines when it comes to child support:

  1. That all parents are financially responsible for their children
  2. That all a child’s survival needs are provided for, and that the child has a higher standard of living, if possible.
  3. The child’s standard of living does not decrease as a result of the divorce
  4. Both parents have a subsistence level of income
  5. Child support can divert from standard guidelines when a child has special needs
  6. Parents will bear any additional costs resulting from the maintenance of two separate households
  7. Non-monetary contributions and involvement of both parents are taken into account
  8. Monetary and/or in-kind contributions of both parents outside of the child support order
  9. All children receive the necessary health care insurance
  10. Ensure child support orders are consistent, simple, and make sense
  11. Streamline administration

How is child support determined by a Massachusetts judge?

In order to make a decision about child support, there are a number of important factors to consider, including:

  • The cost of child care
  • The cost of the child’s health insurance
  • The number of children in your household
  • Your child custody arrangement
  • Child-related expenses
  • Sources of income
  • Each party’s earning capacity

When can I stop paying child support in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, most parents will have to pay child support until their child is considered emancipated upon his/her 18th birthday. That being said, if your child has certain special needs or wishes to attend college, the court may extend the support until a later date. On the other hand, child support can be terminated early under some of the following circumstances:

  • Gets married
  • Enters the military
  • Lives independently, depending on their level of autonomy
  • Turns 18
  • Gets pregnant

If you have any questions or concerns about child support, our firm is here to help. Reach out today to speak with an experienced family law attorney.

Contact our experienced Bristol County firm

For over 30 years, The Law Offices of Cynthia L. Hanley, P.C. has provided quality legal support and representation for clients in Bristol County and all of Massachusetts. Our firm’s experience eases the stress of clients while providing the legal services they deserve. If you need help through a contested divorce, contact The Law Offices of Cynthia L. Hanley, P.C. for a consultation today.