How do I know I am eligible for child support?
Child support can sometimes be a difficult topic for parents to discuss. While people may feel that they are contributing enough financially, the parent who is actually caring for the child may disagree and demand more money. Since there may not be a court order in place, the custodial parent could easily make a request that the noncustodial parent pay child support. They may end up getting the money they requested regardless of what the other parent feels. Some parents may think that they are entitled to child support just because they have the child more than the other parent, but there are many factors a parent should look at if they want to know if they are eligible for child support from their ex.
You should consider the following when determining whether or not you are eligible for child support:
- Who is the custodial parent?
- If you are the father, have you legally established paternity?
- Where is the other parent located?
- Were you the primary caretaker during the marriage?
There is never a guarantee that a parent will be awarded child support when they request it. Your child does need to be cared for by both parents, but if the judge decides that there isn’t a need for child support, then you can only hope that the mother or father of your child will choose to contribute on their own. It would be nice if parents made the right decision and helped out financially without a push from the courts, but this not always the case.
Anyone who is interested in getting child support for their child should speak to an attorney. Parents aren’t always willing to contribute financially to help the other parent care for their child. This means that you and your child may suffer. An attorney may be able to help you get the support your child deserves.
