Connie Thacker explains why child support income is vastly different from what you report on your tax return.
Connie Thacker and Allison Slate, experienced family law attorneys, host this episode focusing on child support calculations in Michigan. They explain the legal mechanics and definitions crucial for parents navigating divorce. The discussion centers on how Michigan courts determine financial obligations for children.
The hosts clarify that income for child support differs significantly from taxable income reported to the IRS. They specifically note that deductions like depreciation, often used by self-employed individuals, are not allowable for child support calculations. Allison Slate describes countable income as "whatever money you can put in your pocket." The calculation uses a specific computerized formula into which several key variables are entered. A primary factor is the number of overnights each parent has with the children annually. The hosts state that more overnights for the non-custodial parent result in a lower child support payment. Other inputs include each parent's income and the cost of medical insurance premiums covering the children.
A key insight is that the legal definition of income aims to capture all available financial resources, not just what is left after business deductions. The phrase "garbage in, garbage out" is used to stress that accurate input data is essential for a proper support order. The system is presented as a structured calculation rather than a subjective negotiation. The significant impact of overnight schedules reveals how parenting time is directly tied to financial responsibility.
The tone is educational and practical, offering clear explanations of complex legal standards. The style is conversational and direct, with the attorneys sharing insights from their client experiences.
This episode is ideal for Michigan parents or legal professionals seeking a straightforward explanation of child support factors. Listeners looking for personal narratives or debates on family law policy might find it too technical.
