Wisconsin Family Law: What You Need to Know About Child Support Calculations

Wisconsin family law can be complex, especially when it comes to child support calculations. Understanding the state’s guidelines is vital for parents seeking to establish or modify support obligations. Below, we delve into the key aspects of child support calculations in Wisconsin.

In Wisconsin, child support is primarily determined using a formula that takes several factors into account. The most significant factors include the number of children to be supported and the income of both parents. Wisconsin uses a percentage-based guideline to determine the amount of support that one parent should pay to the other.

For one child, the non-custodial parent is typically obligated to pay 17% of their gross income. For two children, the percentage increases to 25%, and it continues to rise for additional children. Specifically, the percentage for three children is 29%, for four children it’s 31%, and for five or more children, it starts at 34% and may vary based on the number of additional children.

Gross income includes a variety of revenue sources, such as wages, self-employment income, rental income, and certain forms of government assistance. It’s essential for both parents to accurately report their income and any changes to ensure the calculations reflect their current financial situation.

In cases where a parent is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed, Wisconsin law may impute income to that parent for child support purposes. This means the court can assign a potential income based on what a parent could earn given their skills and work history, even if they are currently earning less. This provision is intended to prevent parents from shirking their financial responsibilities.

Wisconsin also recognizes the importance of shared placement arrangements. In cases where parents share physical placement of their children, the child support calculations will take into account the amount of time each parent spends with the child. Shared placement may lead to adjustments in the support amount, recognizing the expenses incurred by both parents.

All calculations and agreements must be reviewed and approved by the court. If parents can agree on an alternate child support amount outside of the guidelines, they may submit their agreement for court approval, which will consider the best interest of the child as the primary factor.

Modifications to child support can occur when there is a significant change in circumstances. This might include alterations in income, a change in the custody arrangement, or new expenses for the child. When seeking a modification, parents must provide proof of the changes to the court.

In conclusion, understanding the nuances of child support calculations in Wisconsin is crucial for both custodial and non-custodial parents. By being informed of the percentages used in the guidelines, the income considerations, and the potential for adjustments based on shared placement, parents can better prepare for discussions and negotiations regarding child support. Always consider consulting with a family law attorney to navigate these complexities effectively.