What Counts As Income For Child Support Purposes In Fort Lauderdale?

If you’re a divorced or single parent in Fort Lauderdale, you may be entitled to child support payments. However, determining the amount and how it is calculated can leave you feeling confused and frustrated. Many parents assume only a paycheck counts. Others worry their ex is hiding money or understating earnings.

Florida child support calculations are broader than most people expect. Knowing what the court considers “income” can help you understand whether a support amount is fair and when you can challenge it.

Income Florida Courts Typically Include When Calculating Fort Lauderdale Child Support Payments

Depending on your income, your child’s needs, and the amount of time they spend in your home, you may be entitled to child support payments in Fort Lauderdale. These help cover your child’s basic living expenses and protect their standard of living, but determining the amount is not easy.

Under the Florida Statutes, the Broward County Family Court looks at more than just wages. Courts focus on a parent’s true financial ability to contribute. Income commonly considered includes:

• Any wages, salary, and overtime they receive;
• All bonuses, commissions, and tips;
• Self-employment or business income;
• Rental or investment income;
• Unemployment, disability, or retirement benefits;
• Trust funds or other inheritances.

Keep in mind that when calculating Fort Lauderdale child support payments, the court looks at consistent earning patterns, not just one good or bad month.

Even if your spouse tries to hide it or fails to disclose their total income, tax returns, bank statements, credit reports, and testimony from friends or family can help in proving that they make significantly more than they may be letting on.

Income Issues That Can Cause Disputes In Fort Lauderdale Child Support Cases

Under Florida Law, parents have a legal duty to support their children financially, but disputes over this obligation and the amount paid are unfortunately common. Issues often arise when the other parent’s income is unclear or fluctuates. Common problem areas include:

• Cash income or side work not fully reported.
• Self-employed parents deducting personal expenses.
• Underemployment or voluntary job changes.
• Irregular bonuses or seasonal income.
• Benefits received in place of wages.

Even if the other parent attempts to hide income or quit their job, a Broward County judge can impute an amount, depending on their skills, experience, and prior earning history. If they refuse to pay, having a court order helps with wage garnishment, liens, and other enforcement efforts.

To Get What You Are Entitled To, Contact Our Fort Lauderdale Child Support Lawyer Today

When it comes to child support in Fort Lauderdale, accurate income calculations matter. An incorrect number can jeopardize you and your child’s financial security for years afterward. At Vanessa L. Prieto Law Offices, we can review financial records, identify inconsistencies, and present evidence that reflects real earning capacity.

Our experienced Fort Lauderdale child support lawyer helps Broward County parents ensure child support calculations are fair, accurate, and based on complete information. To get what you are entitled to, call or contact our office online and request a consultation today.

Source:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.13.html