Abstract
In 2017, Illinois switched from using a straight percentage formula when calculating monthly child support obligations to using a version of the “income shares” calculation. Under the income shares model, if a parent has their child for at least 40% of the overnights per year, their monthly child support obligation can be drastically reduced. This can lead to situations where parents fight for more time with their children simply because they want to have lower child support payments. With a variety of different child support calculation methods throughout the Midwest, Illinois should modify its current method to prevent children from being further caught in the middle of their parents’ disputes. This note analyzes the methods used throughout the Midwest, Delaware, and Washington, D.C. As a result, this note concludes that the hybrid formula, similar to one used in Washington, D.C. with some additional improvements, is the best option to handle the unique situations of families enduring a divorce while avoiding unnecessary and excessive involvement of children in ongoing disputes.
Recommended Citation
Kenzie R. Mooty,
Making Cents of Child Support Calculations: A Guide for the Midwest,
47
S. Ill. U. L.J.
383
(2023).
Available at:
https://opensiuc.lib.siu.edu/siulj/vol47/iss2/4