When parents get a divorce, they are still responsible for taking care of their children. How this is orchestrated may change, but every child has the right to receive support from both of their parents, emotionally and financially. This is why when parenting plans are created, a judge will likely keep both parents involved in the child’s life unless there are extreme circumstances, such as abuse. Child support is how the noncustodial parent will financially contribute to the child’s well-being.
Determining Child Support
When child support is calculated in Illinois, both parents’ net incomes are considered using an "income shares" model. The numerical amount of support that parents are responsible for is based on their percentage of combined net income. The paying parent is usually the person who has the least amount of parenting time. Child support for the main custodial parent is implied. Money paid for child support goes toward basic needs, medical costs, and school expenses for the child only.
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