Calculating child support can be a daunting task. Under the law, the calculation must take into account both parents' income and expenses, as well as various other factors relating to the child's unique financial needs (e.g., tuition, medical expenses, etc.). For many navigating the system for the first time, the process can be decidedly overwhelming. Fortunately, Michigan recently rolled out a new online calculator tool that can help parents prepare for the process ahead of time – which may help alleviate some of the all-too-common nerves implicit in any court proceeding.

Released in early April by the Department of Health and Human Services, the calculator takes about 45 minutes to complete, and directs parents to compile several documents ahead of time, including:

• Recent income tax returns
• Pay stubs
• Healthcare insurance premium costs
• Information relating to childcare
• The number of overnights each child spends with each parent per year

While filling out the calculator, users are also provided information concerning the Michigan child support formula, as well as assistance from the Bureau of Labor Statistics webpages in the event a certain financial figure is unknown. Both parents are required to fully fill in the data, and parents have an option to save their inputted information to complete later.

While the child support calculator is not meant to replace or supplement a court order, the tool can be very useful in helping parents prepare for what will likely be the court's decision with regard to the proper amount of payment. Child support law, while based on formula , can be highly nuanced – especially for parents with multiple children and/or a complex income structure. Moreover, the results of the formula are not binding on the court, and the court may award an amount higher or lower depending on certain collateral factors.

Contact an experienced child support attorney today!

If you are considering filing for child support in Michigan and are not sure how to get started, contact an experienced child support attorney today: 248-608-4123.