Homepage Free Florida Child Support Calculator Form

Understanding Florida Child Support Calculator

  1. What is the purpose of the Florida Child Support Calculator form?

    This form is designed to assist individuals in calculating child support obligations based on the income of both parents and the number of children involved. It is essential when child support is being requested in a case.

  2. When should I use this form?

    Complete the worksheet if you are requesting child support. If you know the other parent's income, attach this worksheet to your financial affidavit. If not, wait until the other parent files their financial affidavit before completing it.

  3. How do I file the form?

    After completing the form, file the original with the clerk of the circuit court in the county where your case is filed. Remember to keep a copy for your records.

  4. What should I do after filing the form?

    You must serve a copy of the form to the other party involved in your case. Ensure that you follow the guidelines outlined in Florida Rule of Judicial Administration 2.516 for proper service.

  5. How do I find more information about the guidelines?

    For additional details, refer to the General Information for Self-Represented Litigants section at the beginning of the forms. You can also consult section 61.30 of the Florida Statutes for specific legal references.

  6. What if I want to keep my address confidential?

    If you are a victim of certain crimes and wish to keep your address private, do not include your personal information on the form. Instead, file a Request for Confidential Filing of Address using Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.980(h).

  7. What if I need to deviate from the guideline amount?

    If you or the other parent wish to request a different amount than what the guidelines suggest, you must complete and attach a Motion to Deviate from Child Support Guidelines using Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.943.

Common mistakes

  1. Neglecting to include all sources of income: It's crucial to report every source of income, including bonuses, overtime, and side jobs. Omitting any income can lead to an inaccurate calculation.

  2. Using outdated child support guidelines: Ensure you have the most recent version of the child support guidelines chart. Using outdated figures may result in incorrect support amounts.

  3. Failing to convert income correctly: If income is reported in a frequency other than monthly, it must be converted accurately. Miscalculating these figures can significantly affect the outcome.

  4. Not serving the other party: After completing the form, it is essential to serve a copy to the other party. Failure to do so can lead to delays in the process.

  5. Ignoring the need for a Motion to Deviate: If you believe the child support amount should differ from the guidelines, a Motion to Deviate must be completed and attached. Neglecting this step can hinder your request.

  6. Providing incomplete or inaccurate personal information: Ensure that all personal details, such as names and addresses, are filled out completely and accurately. Errors can lead to complications.

  7. Not keeping a copy for personal records: Always retain a copy of the completed form for your records. This can be invaluable for future reference or disputes.

  8. Overlooking confidentiality options: If you are a victim of domestic violence or similar issues, do not include your address. Instead, file a Request for Confidential Filing of Address.

  9. Failing to seek assistance when needed: If you are unsure about any part of the form, do not hesitate to seek help. Guidance from a qualified professional can prevent mistakes.

How to Use Florida Child Support Calculator

Completing the Florida Child Support Calculator form requires careful attention to detail. This form will help determine the appropriate amount of child support based on the combined income of both parents. Once you fill it out, you will need to serve a copy to the other party involved in your case.

  1. Obtain the Florida Child Support Guidelines Worksheet (Form 12.902(e)). Ensure you have the latest version.
  2. Fill out your personal information at the top of the form, including your name, address, and contact information. If you need to keep your address confidential, follow the guidelines provided for filing a Request for Confidential Filing of Address.
  3. Enter the information for the other party, including their name and contact details, if known.
  4. Determine your combined monthly income and enter it in the appropriate section of the form.
  5. Use the child support guidelines chart to find the guideline amount based on your combined income and the number of children involved. Fill in this amount on the form.
  6. If applicable, calculate any other income or expenses that may affect the child support amount. Include these figures in the designated sections.
  7. If you or the other parent wish to request an amount different from the guideline, complete and attach the Motion to Deviate from Child Support Guidelines (Form 12.943).
  8. Review the completed form for accuracy. Ensure all figures are correct and that you have filled in all required sections.
  9. Sign and date the form at the bottom. Make a copy for your records.
  10. File the original form with the clerk of the circuit court in the county where your case is filed.
  11. Serve a copy of the completed form to the other party in accordance with Florida Rule of Judicial Administration 2.516.

File Specs

Fact Name Description
Purpose of the Form This worksheet is used when child support is being requested in a case. It helps determine the appropriate amount based on the income of both parents.
Filing Requirements The original form must be filed with the clerk of the circuit court in the county where the case is filed. A copy should be kept for personal records.
Service of Process A copy of the completed form must be served on the other party involved in the case, following Florida Rule of Judicial Administration 2.516.
Governing Law This form is governed by section 61.30 of the Florida Statutes, which outlines the child support guidelines in the state.