Your Separation Doesn't Change Your Child's Financial Needs

Despite separation or divorce, a child has the right to continue to be financially supported by both parents. Ensuring that both parents contribute to a child's well-being is not only a legal obligation but also a moral one. Child support is designed to help provide for the child's needs, including basic necessities and special expenses.

Think about it this way -if you were still living with your spouse, both of you would contribute to your child's living expenses. Separation or divorce doesn't change your child's needs, and it shouldn't change your commitment to supporting them financially. Child support ensures that both parents continue to share in the responsibility of raising their child, even if they no longer live together.
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How Child Support is Calculated: Understanding the Federal Child Support Guidelines

The amount of child support is determined by the Federal Child Support Guidelines, which set out rules for calculating child support based on the income of the paying parent and the number of children. It's important to note that the amount of child support can vary between provinces, so specific rules apply depending on where you live.

‍Child Support in Ontario: Breaking Down the Two Components

In Ontario, child support consists of two main components:

1. Basic Amount (Table Amount): This covers everyday living expenses such as food, shelter, and clothing. The amount is based on the paying parent's gross income and the number of children requiring support.
2. Special or Extraordinary Expenses: These are additional expenses that go beyond basic needs, including medical costs, daycare, sports, and  post-secondary education. These costs are typically shared between parents based on their incomes and the specific needs of the child.
            

Key Points to Know About Child Support

• Based  on Gross Income: The amount of child support is generally calculated based on the paying parent's gross income. In cases where income is complex or variable, an income valuation might be necessary to determine the appropriate amount.
• Typically  Paid from One Parent to the Other: Child support payments are usually made from the higher-earning parent to the lower-earning parent to ensure the child’s standard of living is maintained.
• Shared or 50-50 Parenting Arrangements and Child Support: Even if parents share time of the children equally (50-50), child support is still payable. In these situations, a set-off amount is calculated, with the higher earner paying the difference to the lower earner.
           

Reaching a Child Support Agreement: Mediation Can Help

You and your former spouse can agree on the amount of child support outside of court. Mediation provides a supportive environment where you can discuss your child’s needs, your financial situations, and reach a mutually agreeable arrangement. This approach is often quicker, less expensive, and less stressful than going through court.

By choosing mediation, you maintain control over the decisions and create a tailored plan that works for your family. It's crucial to put any agreement you reach in writing (such as a separation agreement) to avoid misunderstandings and ensure that both parties understand their obligations.

If you and your former spouse cannot reach an agreement on child support, a judge will make the decision for you, usually based on the Federal Child Support Guidelines. However, going to court can be costly, time-consuming, and emotionally draining. Mediation offers a more amicable and efficient alternative, focusing on collaboration and the well-being of your child.