The child support amount recommended by the Michigan Child Support Formula is presumed accurate. The formula is based on the needs of the child and the actual resources of each parent. Therefore, it is important that you provide your attorney with detailed information to input into the formula for an accurate result.

The following is a list of some of the most important information that you should gather prior to meeting with your attorney to run child support numbers:

Your gross annual income and opposing party’s gross annual income;
Provide most recent tax return, W-2’s, 1099’s, year-to-date paystubs, bonus information, and other income information. If income varies year-to-year for either party, it is helpful to review the 3 previous years’ of income to determine an average.
Any monthly health care costs provided for the minor child(ren) by you and/or the other party (note: it is important to obtain information that illustrates what your monthly payments would be if you just covered yourself versus what you pay to add the child(ren) – the difference in those amounts is what you will receive credit for in the formula);
The number of overnights that each parent exercises (note: in some situations, this is still an unknown number as the parties are still working on a parenting time arrangement, the formula can be run with a few different options to get an idea of the child support amount);
The monthly/annual amount of work-related daycare expenses paid by either party.
Information regarding mandatory retirement plan contributions as a condition of employment.
Any other mandatory withholdings as a condition of employment (e.g. union dues).
Amount of alimony paid to spouses from prior marriages.

Every situation is unique and sometimes the income information is more complex, like in situations where a party runs their own business or bonus and overtime payments vary drastically month-to-month. However, the above list is a good starting point when discussing child support. It is important that you share your specific circumstances with an attorney, as the information can largely affect how the numbers are ran. As a parent, you want to ensure that the minor child(ren) are receiving adequate support while at each parent’s household.

Pospiech Family Law & Mediation, PLLC is focused on finding resolutions that help your family move forward. Attorney Jessica L. Pospiech provides a calming influence and gives her clients the care and attention that is so necessary for families facing difficult and emotional circumstances. Ms. Pospiech ensures that she is readily available for her clients’ questions and concerns. Please do not hesitate to reach out.

P: (734) 531-8554

E: jessica@mifamilylawfirm.com