How to Apply for Georgia Child Support?

Georgia child support laws require the noncustodial parent to pay a share of the cost of raising a child. The amount is based on a formula set by state law and can be modified if the parents agree to a different amount. The court can also add or subtract certain expenses like child care, extracurricular activities, and health insurance. The amount also takes into account parental time and income. In most cases, the higher-earning parent pays. However, the lower-earning parent can request a waiver of child support payments or an adjustment to the amount based on other special circumstances.

The Georgia child support program works to locate parents, establish paternity, and get court orders defining the right of children to consistent financial support from their parents. Support payments are generally based on a formula that considers the combined income of both parents and their other financial obligations. A judge can order more or less than the guidelines amount.

Georgia Child Support Eligibility

The court will use a complicated mathematical guideline to determine how much child support should be paid. The Georgia Child Support Guidelines take into account both parents’ incomes and other factors, such as health insurance and childcare costs. It may also include extraordinary medical expenses and other expenses related to visitation travel. The court can also decide to deviate from the guidelines in some situations.

Under new Georgia law, the judge will look at the gross annual income of both parties, including salaries, interest, trust income, overtime, tips, commissions, and other sources of income. In addition, the judge will consider the custodial and noncustodial parent’s other financial obligations, such as debt payments, alimony, disability, social security benefits, and workers’ compensation payments.

In most cases, a child support order will continue until the child reaches the age of 18, graduates from high school, or dies. However, if the parties agree, the court can continue support until the child is 20 years old.

Georgia Child Support Application Process

The State of Georgia requires that parents provide financial support for their children. Whether the parents are married or separated, this obligation is in place. A parent can apply for child support services with the Georgia Department of Human Resources, Division of Child Support Services (DCSS). The Georgia Child Support application is free of charge. The DCSS will verify the applicant’s income and establish paternity if necessary. It will also assist the applicant in obtaining initial child support payments and collecting back payments, called arrearages.

There is a $25 non-refundable application fee. You must also provide proof of identity, income, and address. You may not have to pay this fee if you are receiving TANF or certain Medicaid benefits. Depending on your situation, you might want to consult a lawyer to help you file an application for child support in Georgia. It is important to prepare all necessary documents before you start the process. Having all the necessary information and documents can speed up the process and avoid unnecessary delays.