How Financial Support for a Child and Former Spouse Coexist
While all children under 18 are entitled to child support in Florida, there is not always a requirement for a lower-earning spouse to receive spousal support following a divorce. When a spouse is awarded alimony, however, the amount is directly affected by the child support they receive.
Determining Child Support
Florida evaluates a number of factors in a couple’s case to determine who will pay child support and how much it will amount to. The decision is based on a several details including each parent’s income, insurance costs, special expenses, and more. Ultimately, the amount will be calculated using a program wherein the judge and attorneys can input relevant specifics of the case.
The Influence of Alimony
Alimony is among the factors entered into the digital program. Alimony exists in several distinct forms in Florida, including:
- Bridge-the-gap alimony: The supported spouse is granted financial assistance during the transitory period from divorce into single life for a maximum of two years.
- Durational alimony: The receiving spouse is awarded alimony for a period that is no more than the length of the marriage.
- Lump sum alimony: The receiving spouse is given financial support in one single nonrecurring payment.
- Permanent alimony: The spouse is awarded support indefinitely.
- Rehabilitative alimony: The lesser-earning spouse is supported while they obtain the education or training necessary to get a job and support themselves.
- Temporary alimony: The receiving spouse is given financial support during the divorce process, with the assistance ending once the divorce is finalized.
Regardless of the type of alimony a parent receives, it will impact the total amount of child support they are entitled to.
If a custodial spouse is an alimony recipient, they can typically expect to receive less child support. This is because of the way spousal support affects both parents’ income.
A receiving spouse’s annual income will rise, as alimony is included in their yearly earnings. On the other hand, a paying spouse’s net income lowers, as they are required to pay a predetermined amount of spousal support every year. As a result, the paying spouse has less disposable income to contribute to childcare costs.
Beatriz Zyne, P.A. can help you predict your financial future and the support you can expect to pay or receive as you prepare for divorce. Contact us today for knowledgeable legal assistance: (305) 876-6138.
