On Jan. 1 of this year, multiple changes to Washington law related to child support took effect. The changes pertain to how child support is calculated under the state’s family code.
The changes were made to better reflect both the rise in incomes and the cost of living for Washington residents since the laws were first written. The intent was also to make child support calculations more consistent and fair across income levels. Let’s take a brief look at two key changes.
Child support economic table changes
The table is used to determine the presumptive amount of child support to be paid. It has been updated to raise the maximum combined parental net income in the table from $12,000 per month to $50,000 per month. This will help high-income divorcing couples better calculate and negotiate child support without having to rely on the court.
Self-support reserve increase
The self-support reserve refers to how much money a parent who is paying child support can have left to support themselves. Under the amended law, a person’s child support obligation “shall not reduce their net income below the self-support reserve of 180% of the federal poverty level for a one-person family,” with some exceptions. This is up from 125%. Parents with very low incomes may still be ordered to pay at least $50 in child support for each child per month, even if it takes them below that level.
Whether a parent will be paying or receiving child support, it’s crucial to understand how it’s determined under the law. Having experienced legal guidance can help parents ensure that their rights and, most importantly, their child’s well-being are protected.
