In order to determine child support obligations, the Court first determines how many children are eligible for support. Generally, child support is available for minor children until they reach the age of 18 or until they graduate from high school, whichever occurs later. The Court will determine who has custody of the minor children before making any determination of support.

In general, child support is determined based on the parents’ individual gross incomes. The state of South Carolina uses a calculator to determine child support based on the income of the parents. This calculator is called the South Carolina DSS Child Support Calculator.

Yes. Some examples include:

• Providing for support for another child or children may reduce support
• Providing health insurance for the minor child or children may reduce support
• Maintaining a child for overnight visitation of 110 days or more may reduce support

Yes. Some examples include:

• Extraordinary medical expenses
• Daycare expenses paid by the custodial parent could increase the non-custodial parent’s support obligation

The Miller Law Firm, P.A. is not an accounting firm and all clients are encouraged to seek accounting advice as needed. In general, child support is taxable to the party paying support and not taxable to the recipient.

Yes. Child support may be increased or decreased based on a substantial and material change in circumstances. Loss of a job, or a promotion are examples of potential changes in circumstances. However, every situation is unique and must be evaluated on an individual basis before a decision should be made to file for a modification.