Is there a minimum amount that a non-custodial parent has to pay for child support if they are unemployed?

Question

Also, if the non-custodial parent is married does their income then get combined?

Answer 1

If he is unemployed, he can go to court and ask for a reduction in child support.

And no, the spouse's income usually does not come into play. After all, your child is not her child.

Answer 2

It depends on what state you're in but usually the income of the other spouse in the parent's new marriage is not considered in determining an amount.  If the parent doesn't work but can then the courts can determine an amount based on what they could have made had they been working.  You can't just sit on your butt and expect not to be held responsible for your child.

Answer 3

It should not change because someone is unemployed. Think of it this way: If the child(ren) were living with him, would they stop feeding, clothing, providing shelter, heat, educations, etc. just because he (the parent) was unemployed?

Answer 4

Most states will attribute income.  Usually that state's minimum wage.  And no, only the parents income is considered.

Answer 5

if the non-custodial parent recently lost their job then they have to pay the same amount they have been paying. If they have been unemployed and then set up cs the state will impute(SP?) there income at minimum wage. The state believes everyone can get something paying at least min wage. If the non-custodial parent is married only his/her income is used. The other spouse's income is not included.

Answer 6

Yes. In most states it is figured from minimum wage, full time employment. Only a parent is responsible for child support, not a step parent, so their income is not counted.

Answer 7

That various from state to state. If  you are getting unemployment then  yes a certain amount of that is taking for child support. Now here in Maryland if the dad/mom is unemployed, the court might give them 30 days to find a job and then bring them back for a amount to be set.