How Is Child Support Determined in Michigan? | FRED Fathers’ Rights for Equality in Divorce
If you're navigating a divorce, separation, or custody case in Michigan, understanding how child support is calculated is essential. At FRED Fathers’ Rights for Equality in Divorce we know how important it is to make sure your child is financially supported—and that your rights are protected.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how child support is determined in Michigan, what factors the court considers, and how you can estimate your potential support obligation.
What Is Child Support in Michigan?
Child support is a financial payment made by one parent to another to help cover the child’s living expenses. In Michigan, both parents share this responsibility, even if they’re not living together.
The amount of child support is calculated using the Michigan Child Support Formula, a legally mandated formula used in every county across the state.
Factors That Affect Child Support in Michigan
The formula considers several important details:
1. Income of Both Parents
Both parents’ gross incomes are considered. This includes:
- Wages, salaries, and bonuses
- Self-employment or freelance income
- Disability and unemployment benefits
- Rental or investment income
2. Number of Overnights with Each Parent
Your parenting time schedule plays a major role. Generally, the more overnights a parent has, the lower their child support obligation.
3. Health Care and Childcare Costs
Courts factor in:
- The cost of health insurance for the child
- Work-related childcare expenses
- Out-of-pocket medical costs
4. Number of Children
Support increases based on the number of children. For example, support for two children is more than support for one, but not necessarily double.
5. Other Support Obligations
If one parent is already paying support for children from another relationship, that will be taken into account.
Can Child Support Be Modified in Michigan?
Yes. Either parent can request a modification if there’s a significant change in circumstances, such as:
- Job loss or major income change
- A change in custody or parenting time
- New medical or educational needs for the child
You can request a support review through the Friend of the Court or file a motion directly with the court. At FRED Fathers’ Rights for Equality in Divorce we can help guide you through this process.
🧾 Need to modify an existing support order? Contact us for a consultation to discuss your options.
What Happens If Child Support Isn’t Paid?
Failure to pay child support in Michigan can lead to serious legal consequences, including:
- Wage garnishment
- Seizure of tax refunds or bank funds
- Driver’s license suspension
- Civil or criminal contempt charges
Our team at FRED can help you enforce a child support order or defend against unfair enforcement actions.
Working with the Friend of the Court (FOC)
In Michigan, most child support cases involve the Friend of the Court (FOC). This agency:
- Helps calculate support amounts
- Monitors payments
- Assists with enforcement
We regularly work with local FOC offices across [Your Service Areas] and can help ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.
Why Work With FRED Fathers’ Rights for Equality In Divorce
Our experienced Michigan family law attorneys have helped hundreds of parents navigate child support issues across the state. Whether you’re trying to establish a fair support order or modify an existing one, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
What You Can Expect From Us:
- Clear, honest legal advice
- Personalized support tailored to your case
- Strong courtroom representation when needed
- Compassionate guidance that puts your child’s best interests first
Schedule a Free Consultation
Whether you’re just starting the process or dealing with an ongoing child support issue, we’re ready to help.
Contact us today
248-356-7775 Michigan child support attorney.
