Question 1

How is child support calculated in Minnesota?

Accepted Answer

Minnesota uses an income shares model to calculate child support. The court considers both parents' net income, the number of children, and applies a basic support obligation based on combined income. Additional expenses like child care and health insurance are shared proportionally between parents.

Question 2

What is the income shares model in Minnesota?

Accepted Answer

The income shares model assumes that children should receive the same proportion of parental income they would have received if the parents lived together. It calculates each parent's percentage of combined income and applies that percentage to the basic support obligation.

Question 3

What factors affect Minnesota child support calculations?

Accepted Answer

Key factors include both parents' net monthly income, number of children, child care expenses, health insurance costs, other children not subject to the order, and parenting time arrangements. The court may also consider special circumstances and deviations from guidelines.

Question 4

How does parenting time affect child support in Minnesota?

Accepted Answer

Significant parenting time (typically 146+ nights per year) may result in adjustments to child support. The non-custodial parent's support obligation may be reduced based on the percentage of parenting time they have with the children.

Question 5

What income is considered for Minnesota child support?

Accepted Answer

Minnesota considers net income after taxes, Social Security, Medicare, and other mandatory deductions. This includes wages, salaries, bonuses, commissions, self-employment income, rental income, and other sources of income.

Question 6

Can Minnesota child support orders be modified?

Accepted Answer

Yes, child support orders can be modified when there's a significant change in circumstances, such as a substantial change in either parent's income, changes in the child's needs, or changes in parenting time arrangements.

Question 7

How often should Minnesota child support be reviewed?

Accepted Answer

Child support orders should be reviewed every 3 years or when there's a significant change in circumstances. Either parent can request a review and modification if their financial situation has changed substantially.

Question 8

What happens if a parent doesn't pay child support in Minnesota?

Accepted Answer

Minnesota has various enforcement mechanisms including wage garnishment, driver's license suspension, passport denial, tax refund interception, and contempt of court proceedings. The Minnesota Department of Human Services can also assist with enforcement.

Question 9

Are there exceptions to Minnesota child support guidelines?

Accepted Answer

Yes, courts may deviate from guidelines in cases involving high-income parents (combined income over $20,000/month), shared parenting arrangements, or special circumstances like extraordinary medical expenses or educational costs.

Question 10

How long does child support last in Minnesota?

Accepted Answer

Child support typically ends when the child turns 18 and graduates from high school, or when the child turns 19, whichever occurs first. However, support may continue for children with special needs or in certain educational situations.

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