Marital Settlement Agreement Child Support: What You Need to Know

When going through a divorce or separation, one of the most important decisions you will make is regarding child support. Child support is the financial support that a non-custodial parent provides to the custodial parent to help cover the costs of raising a child.

To ensure that both parties are on the same page, it is important to have a Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA) in place. An MSA is a legal document that outlines the terms and conditions of a divorce or separation, including child support.

Here are some important things to keep in mind when it comes to marital settlement agreement child support:

1. State Guidelines: Each state has its own guidelines for calculating child support. These guidelines take into account the income of the parents, the number of children, and other factors such as daycare and health insurance costs. It is important to follow these guidelines when determining the amount of child support.

2. Customization: While state guidelines are important, they are not set in stone. Parents can negotiate their own child support agreement as long as it meets the needs of the child and is approved by the court.

3. Enforcement: Once an MSA is in place, it is legally binding. If one parent fails to comply with the terms of the agreement, the other parent can take legal action to enforce it.

4. Modification: Life circumstances can change, and child support agreements may need to be modified. Both parties can agree on modifications, but they still need to be approved by the court.

5. Taxes: Child support is not taxable income for the recipient and is not tax deductible for the payer.

In conclusion, a marital settlement agreement is crucial when it comes to child support. It ensures that both parties agree on the amount and terms of support and provides legal protection if one party fails to comply. While state guidelines are important, parents can customize their own agreement as long as it meets the needs of the child and is approved by the court. It is important to work with an experienced family law attorney who can guide you through the process and ensure that your child’s best interests are protected.