Getting the Maximum Amount of Child Support in Illinois

As a parent, you want your child to have every advantage in life. Unfortunately, the costs are nearly impossible to afford strictly on your income alone. Having a valid child support order is vitally important in providing for your children’s basic needs while also ensuring they have the experiences, opportunities, and material items they need to succeed in life. Whether you are just beginning the process of filing for support or you currently have an order in place, making sure your children get the maximum amount they are entitled to is a top priority. 

Making Sure Your Children Get Financial Support

Parents have a moral duty and a legal obligation to provide for their children. Under the Illinois Statutes, parents who are single or married and going through a divorce can seek a child support order through the courts, which helps ensure this important debt is paid. 

There are general guidelines that influence the amount of child support ordered. Bear in mind, though, that these reflect the basic support obligation. In any situation, there are likely to be additional expenses and needs that your children have that need to be brought to the court’s attention. These may include: 

• Physical needs: Provisions for health, dental, and vision care along with medications your children require should be included in child support payments. Any extra needs they have in terms of supervision or general care that requires you to take time away from your job should be considered, as well. 
• Developmental needs: Speech therapy, counseling, and other types of services may play important roles in their physical and emotional development. These costs need to be included in child support, as do expenses for recreational activities and sports they engage in. 
• Educational needs: The costs of private schools, textbooks, field trips, and tutors should also be included in your child support. 

Modifying Your Child Support Order

In calculating the amount of child support that must be paid, the judge will consider each parent’s income and expenses. Both are required to submit financial affidavits to the court that reflect these amounts. If there are any major financial changes, a child support modification may be requested. These include: 

• Increases in your spouse’s wages or income;
• Sudden windfalls of money, such as an inheritance;
• Job losses on your part;
• Added expenses you have, such as providing for additional family members. 

Contact Our Chicago Child Support Attorneys

If you suspect you are not getting the child support you deserve, reach out to the Women’s Divorce and Family Law Group. Contact our office to request a consultation with our Chicago child support attorneys today.