Although many divorcing parents consider child support payments a burden, they comprise a critical benefit that protects the children of divorced or unmarried parents by ensuring they receive practical support from both of their parents. Child support helps close the gap between the resources of the custodian parents and the needs of the child.
Whether you are likely headed toward divorce or have had a child with someone whom you never married, you may find yourself in a situation where you either need to collect or pay child support. Instead of viewing child support as unsavory, view it as something the state requires for the benefit and protection of your children.
Unrealistic expectations about child support can lead to unnecessary disagreements and acrimony in a divorce or a breakup. Learning a little bit more about how New Hampshire handles child support can make you feel more confident about the topic.
There is a straightforward formula for calculating child support
The state of New Hampshire uses a calculator that considers unique factors such as who has the child for more overnight stays and the income of each parent when determining what amount of support is reasonable and fair for a family’s current circumstances. However, families with incomes that exceed $226,000 a year may find that the calculator does not work for them, necessitating the individual review of their family circumstances.
The calculator can be particularly useful for changes after a divorce, as it can help you determine whether your child support obligations will change when financial circumstances in your family shift. That way, you know if it’s time to request a modification.
How long does child support typically last?
The duration of child support will depend on several factors. Generally speaking, the age and special needs of a child will directly influence the duration of child support payments. Most parents paying child support in New Hampshire can anticipate their support obligations ending when their child turns 18.
However, if your child has not yet graduated high school when they reach their 18th birthday, they may wind up continuing to pay child support until the child finishes school. In situations involving children with special needs, the courts may extend child support longer into adulthood based on the level of support the child needs from the custodial parent and the level of independence possible for them.
