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Understanding how child support is calculated in the Sunshine State can be daunting, especially for parents navigating the complexities of family law for the first time. The Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(e), commonly known as the Child Support Guidelines Worksheet, serves as a critical tool for this purpose. Its primary aim is to establish a fair and equitable amount of child support, considering the financial circumstances of both parents. The form is required whenever child support is requested, ensuring that the financial support provided is in the best interest of the child or children involved. By taking into account the combined income of the parents and the number of children, the guidelines chart embedded within the form offers a standardized way to calculate the support amount. Additionally, the worksheet details the steps to be followed if there is a desire to deviate from these guideline amounts. It is imperative for the form to be completed accurately and filed with the clerk of the circuit court in the pertinent county, with service to the other party as per Florida's legal requirements. Moreover, the form includes provisions for the confidentiality of addresses in cases of sexual battery or domestic violence. With changes to the guideline amounts possible, ensuring access to the most current chart is essential for accurate calculations. The worksheet not only encapsulates legal requirements but also provides a framework for the protection and welfare of children within the judicial system.

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INSTRUCTIONS FOR FLORIDA FAMILY LAW RULES OF PROCEDURE FORM

12.902(e), CHILD SUPPORT GUIDELINES WORKSHEET (09/12)

When should this form be used?

You should complete this worksheet if child support is being requested in your case. If you know the

income of the other party, this worksheet should accompany your financial affidavit. If you do not k o the other party’s income, this form must be completed after the other party files his or her

financial affidavit, and serves a copy on you.

This form should be typed or printed in black ink. You should file the original with the clerk of the circuit court in the county where your case is filed and keep a copy for your records.

What should I do next?

A copy of this form must be served on the other party in your case. Service must be in accordance with Florida Rule of Judicial Administration 2.516.

Where can I look for more information?

Before proceedi g, you should read Ge eral I for atio for “elf-Represe ted Litiga ts fou d at the beginning of these forms. The words that are in bold underline in these instructions are defined there. For further information, see section 61.30, Florida Statutes.

Special notes...

If you want to keep your address confidential because you are the victim of sexual battery, aggravated child abuse, aggravated stalking, harassment, aggravated battery or domestic violence, do not enter the address, telephone, and fax information at the bottom of this form. Instead, file Request for Confidential Filing of Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.980(h).

The chart below contains the guideline amounts that you should use when calculating child support. This amount is based on the number of children and the combined income of the parents, and it is divided between the parents in direct proportion to their income or earning capacity. From time to time, some of the amounts in the child support guidelines chart will change. Be sure you have the most recent version of the chart before using it.

Because the guidelines are based on monthly amounts, it may be necessary to convert some income and expense figures from other frequencies to monthly. You should do this as follows:

Instructions for Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(e), Child Support Guidelines Worksheet (09/12)

If payment is twice per month

Payment amount

x

2

=

Monthly amount

If payment is every two weeks

Payment amount

x

26

=

Yearly amount due

 

Yearly amount

÷

12

=

Monthly amount

If payment is weekly

Weekly amount

x

52

=

Yearly amount due

 

Yearly amount

÷

12

=

Monthly amount

If you or the other parent request that the court award an amount that is different than the guideline amount, you must also complete and attach a Motion to Deviate from Child Support Guidelines, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.943.

Remember, a person who is NOT an attorney is called a nonlawyer. If a nonlawyer helps you fill out these forms, that person must give you a copy of a Disclosure from Nonlawyer, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.900(a), before he or she helps you. A nonlawyer helping you fill out these forms also must put his or her name, address, and telephone number on the bottom of the last page of every form he or she helps you complete.

Instructions for Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(e), Child Support Guidelines Worksheet (09/12)

CHILD SUPPORT GUIDELINES CHART

Combined

One

Two

Three

Four

Five

Six

Monthly

Child

Children

Children

Children

Children

Children

Available

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income

 

 

 

 

 

 

800.00

190

211

213

216

218

220

850.00

202

257

259

262

265

268

900.00

213

302

305

309

312

315

950.00

224

347

351

355

359

363

1000.00

235

365

397

402

406

410

1050.00

246

382

443

448

453

458

1100.00

258

400

489

495

500

505

1150.00

269

417

522

541

547

553

1200.00

280

435

544

588

594

600

1250.00

290

451

565

634

641

648

1300.00

300

467

584

659

688

695

1350.00

310

482

603

681

735

743

1400.00

320

498

623

702

765

790

1450.00

330

513

642

724

789

838

1500.00

340

529

662

746

813

869

1550.00

350

544

681

768

836

895

1600.00

360

560

701

790

860

920

1650.00

370

575

720

812

884

945

1700.00

380

591

740

833

907

971

1750.00

390

606

759

855

931

996

1800.00

400

622

779

877

955

1022

1850.00

410

638

798

900

979

1048

1900.00

421

654

818

923

1004

1074

1950.00

431

670

839

946

1029

1101

2000.00

442

686

859

968

1054

1128

2050.00

452

702

879

991

1079

1154

2100.00

463

718

899

1014

1104

1181

2150.00

473

734

919

1037

1129

1207

2200.00

484

751

940

1060

1154

1234

2250.00

494

767

960

1082

1179

1261

2300.00

505

783

980

1105

1204

1287

2350.00

515

799

1000

1128

1229

1314

2400.00

526

815

1020

1151

1254

1340

2450.00

536

831

1041

1174

1279

1367

2500.00

547

847

1061

1196

1304

1394

2550.00

557

864

1081

1219

1329

1420

Instructions for Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(e), Child Support Guidelines Worksheet (09/12)

Combined

One

Two

Three

Four

Five

Six

Monthly

Child

Children

Children

Children

Children

Children

Available

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income

 

 

 

 

 

 

2600.00

568

880

1101

1242

1354

1447

2650.00

578

896

1121

1265

1379

1473

2700.00

588

912

1141

1287

1403

1500

2750.00

597

927

1160

1308

1426

1524

2800.00

607

941

1178

1328

1448

1549

2850.00

616

956

1197

1349

1471

1573

2900.00

626

971

1215

1370

1494

1598

2950.00

635

986

1234

1391

1517

1622

3000.00

644

1001

1252

1412

1540

1647

3050.00

654

1016

1271

1433

1563

1671

3100.00

663

1031

1289

1453

1586

1695

3150.00

673

1045

1308

1474

1608

1720

3200.00

682

1060

1327

1495

1631

1744

3250.00

691

1075

1345

1516

1654

1769

3300.00

701

1090

1364

1537

1677

1793

3350.00

710

1105

1382

1558

1700

1818

3400.00

720

1120

1401

1579

1723

1842

3450.00

729

1135

1419

1599

1745

1867

3500.00

738

1149

1438

1620

1768

1891

3550.00

748

1164

1456

1641

1791

1915

3600.00

757

1179

1475

1662

1814

1940

3650.00

767

1194

1493

1683

1837

1964

3700.00

776

1208

1503

1702

1857

1987

3750.00

784

1221

1520

1721

1878

2009

3800.00

793

1234

1536

1740

1899

2031

3850.00

802

1248

1553

1759

1920

2053

3900.00

811

1261

1570

1778

1940

2075

3950.00

819

1275

1587

1797

1961

2097

4000.00

828

1288

1603

1816

1982

2119

4050.00

837

1302

1620

1835

2002

2141

4100.00

846

1315

1637

1854

2023

2163

4150.00

854

1329

1654

1873

2044

2185

4200.00

863

1342

1670

1892

2064

2207

4250.00

872

1355

1687

1911

2085

2229

4300.00

881

1369

1704

1930

2106

2251

4350.00

889

1382

1721

1949

2127

2273

4400.00

898

1396

1737

1968

2147

2295

4450.00

907

1409

1754

1987

2168

2317

Instructions for Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(e), Child Support Guidelines Worksheet (09/12)

Combined

One

Two

Three

Four

Five

Six

Monthly

Child

Children

Children

Children

Children

Children

Available

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income

 

 

 

 

 

 

4500.00

916

1423

1771

2006

2189

2339

4550.00

924

1436

1788

2024

2209

2361

4600.00

933

1450

1804

2043

2230

2384

4650.00

942

1463

1821

2062

2251

2406

4700.00

951

1477

1838

2081

2271

2428

4750.00

959

1490

1855

2100

2292

2450

4800.00

968

1503

1871

2119

2313

2472

4850.00

977

1517

1888

2138

2334

2494

4900.00

986

1530

1905

2157

2354

2516

4950.00

993

1542

1927

2174

2372

2535

5000.00

1000

1551

1939

2188

2387

2551

5050.00

1006

1561

1952

2202

2402

2567

5100.00

1013

1571

1964

2215

2417

2583

5150.00

1019

1580

1976

2229

2432

2599

5200.00

1025

1590

1988

2243

2447

2615

5250.00

1032

1599

2000

2256

2462

2631

5300.00

1038

1609

2012

2270

2477

2647

5350.00

1045

1619

2024

2283

2492

2663

5400.00

1051

1628

2037

2297

2507

2679

5450.00

1057

1638

2049

2311

2522

2695

5500.00

1064

1647

2061

2324

2537

2711

5550.00

1070

1657

2073

2338

2552

2727

5600.00

1077

1667

2085

2352

2567

2743

5650.00

1083

1676

2097

2365

2582

2759

5700.00

1089

1686

2109

2379

2597

2775

5750.00

1096

1695

2122

2393

2612

2791

5800.00

1102

1705

2134

2406

2627

2807

5850.00

1107

1713

2144

2418

2639

2820

5900.00

1111

1721

2155

2429

2651

2833

5950.00

1116

1729

2165

2440

2663

2847

6000.00

1121

1737

2175

2451

2676

2860

6050.00

1126

1746

2185

2462

2688

2874

6100.00

1131

1754

2196

2473

2700

2887

6150.00

1136

1762

2206

2484

2712

2900

6200.00

1141

1770

2216

2495

2724

2914

6250.00

1145

1778

2227

2506

2737

2927

6300.00

1150

1786

2237

2517

2749

2941

6350.00

1155

1795

2247

2529

2761

2954

Instructions for Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(e), Child Support Guidelines Worksheet (09/12)

Combined

One

Two

Three

Four

Five

Six

Monthly

Child

Children

Children

Children

Children

Children

Available

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income

 

 

 

 

 

 

6400.00

1160

1803

2258

2540

2773

2967

6450.00

1165

1811

2268

2551

2785

2981

6500.00

1170

1819

2278

2562

2798

2994

6550.00

1175

1827

2288

2573

2810

3008

6600.00

1179

1835

2299

2584

2822

3021

6650.00

1184

1843

2309

2595

2834

3034

6700.00

1189

1850

2317

2604

2845

3045

6750.00

1193

1856

2325

2613

2854

3055

6800.00

1196

1862

2332

2621

2863

3064

6850.00

1200

1868

2340

2630

2872

3074

6900.00

1204

1873

2347

2639

2882

3084

6950.00

1208

1879

2355

2647

2891

3094

7000.00

1212

1885

2362

2656

2900

3103

7050.00

1216

1891

2370

2664

2909

3113

7100.00

1220

1897

2378

2673

2919

3123

7150.00

1224

1903

2385

2681

2928

3133

7200.00

1228

1909

2393

2690

2937

3142

7250.00

1232

1915

2400

2698

2946

3152

7300.00

1235

1921

2408

2707

2956

3162

7350.00

1239

1927

2415

2716

2965

3172

7400.00

1243

1933

2423

2724

2974

3181

7450.00

1247

1939

2430

2733

2983

3191

7500.00

1251

1945

2438

2741

2993

3201

7550.00

1255

1951

2446

2750

3002

3211

7600.00

1259

1957

2453

2758

3011

3220

7650.00

1263

1963

2461

2767

3020

3230

7700.00

1267

1969

2468

2775

3030

3240

7750.00

1271

1975

2476

2784

3039

3250

7800.00

1274

1981

2483

2792

3048

3259

7850.00

1278

1987

2491

2801

3057

3269

7900.00

1282

1992

2498

2810

3067

3279

7950.00

1286

1998

2506

2818

3076

3289

8000.00

1290

2004

2513

2827

3085

3298

8050.00

1294

2010

2521

2835

3094

3308

8100.00

1298

2016

2529

2844

3104

3318

8150.00

1302

2022

2536

2852

3113

3328

8200.00

1306

2028

2544

2861

3122

3337

8250.00

1310

2034

2551

2869

3131

3347

Instructions for Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(e), Child Support Guidelines Worksheet (09/12)

Combined

One

Two

Three

Four

Five

Six

Monthly

Child

Children

Children

Children

Children

Children

Available

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income

 

 

 

 

 

 

8300.00

1313

2040

2559

2878

3141

3357

8350.00

1317

2046

2566

2887

3150

3367

8400.00

1321

2052

2574

2895

3159

3376

8450.00

1325

2058

2581

2904

3168

3386

8500.00

1329

2064

2589

2912

3178

3396

8550.00

1333

2070

2597

2921

3187

3406

8600.00

1337

2076

2604

2929

3196

3415

8650.00

1341

2082

2612

2938

3205

3425

8700.00

1345

2088

2619

2946

3215

3435

8750.00

1349

2094

2627

2955

3224

3445

8800.00

1352

2100

2634

2963

3233

3454

8850.00

1356

2106

2642

2972

3242

3464

8900.00

1360

2111

2649

2981

3252

3474

8950.00

1364

2117

2657

2989

3261

3484

9000.00

1368

2123

2664

2998

3270

3493

9050.00

1372

2129

2672

3006

3279

3503

9100.00

1376

2135

2680

3015

3289

3513

9150.00

1380

2141

2687

3023

3298

3523

9200.00

1384

2147

2695

3032

3307

3532

9250.00

1388

2153

2702

3040

3316

3542

9300.00

1391

2159

2710

3049

3326

3552

9350.00

1395

2165

2717

3058

3335

3562

9400.00

1399

2171

2725

3066

3344

3571

9450.00

1403

2177

2732

3075

3353

3581

9500.00

1407

2183

2740

3083

3363

3591

9550.00

1411

2189

2748

3092

3372

3601

9600.00

1415

2195

2755

3100

3381

3610

9650.00

1419

2201

2763

3109

3390

3620

9700.00

1422

2206

2767

3115

3396

3628

9750.00

1425

2210

2772

3121

3402

3634

9800.00

1427

2213

2776

3126

3408

3641

9850.00

1430

2217

2781

3132

3414

3647

9900.00

1432

2221

2786

3137

3420

3653

9950.00

1435

2225

2791

3143

3426

3659

10000.00

1437

2228

2795

3148

3432

3666

Instructions for Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(e), Child Support Guidelines Worksheet (09/12)

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE

 

 

 

 

JUDICIAL CIRCUIT,

IN AND FOR

 

 

COUNTY, FLORIDA

 

 

 

Case No.:

 

 

 

 

Division:

 

,

 

 

 

 

 

Petitioner,

 

 

 

 

 

and

 

 

 

 

 

 

,

 

 

 

 

 

Respondent.

 

 

 

 

 

NOTICE OF FILING CHILD SUPPORT GUIDELINES WORKSHEET

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that {name}

_______, is filing his/her

 

 

 

Child Support Guidelines Worksheet attached and labeled Exhibit 1.

CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE

I certify that a copy of this Notice of Filing with the Child Support Guidelines Worksheet was

[check all used]: ( ) e-mailed (

) mailed ( ) faxed ( ) hand delivered to the person(s) listed

below on {date}

 

__________.

 

 

 

 

Other party or his/her attorney:

Name: _____________________________

Address: ____________________________

City, State, Zip: _______________________

Fax Number: _________________________

E-mail Address(es): _____________________

Signature of Party or his/her Attorney

Printed Name: _________________________

Address: ____________________________

City, State, Zip: _______________________

Fax Number: _________________________

E-mail Address(es): _____________________

Florida Bar Number: ____________________

Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(e), Child Support Guidelines Worksheet (09/12)

CHILD SUPPORT GUIDELINES WORKSHEET

 

 

 

 

A. FATHER

B. MOTHER

TOTAL

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1. Present Net Monthly Income

 

 

 

 

 

Enter the amount from line 27, Section I of

 

 

 

 

Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form

 

 

 

 

12.902(b) or (c), Financial Affidavit.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2. Basic Monthly Obligation

 

 

 

 

 

There is (are) {number}_____ minor child(ren)

 

 

 

 

common to the parties.

 

 

 

 

 

Using the total amount from line 1, enter the

 

 

 

 

appropriate amount from the child support

 

 

 

 

guidelines chart.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3. Percent of Financial Responsibility

 

%

%

 

 

Divide the amount on line 1A by the total

 

 

 

 

a

ou t o li e 1 to get Father’s per e

tage of

 

 

 

 

financial responsibility. Enter answer on line 3A.

 

 

 

 

Divide the amount on line 1B by the total

 

 

 

 

a

ou t o li e 1 to get Mother’s per e

tage of

 

 

 

 

financial responsibility. Enter answer on line 3B.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4. Share of Basic Monthly Obligation

 

 

 

 

 

Multiply the number on line 2 by the

 

 

 

 

 

per e tage o li e 3A to get Father’s share

 

 

 

 

of basic obligation. Enter answer on line 4A.

 

 

 

 

Multiply the number on line 2 by the

 

 

 

 

 

per e tage o li e 3B to get Mother’s share

 

 

 

 

of basic obligation. Enter answer on line 4B.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Additional Support — Health Insurance, Child Care & Other

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5. a. 100% of Monthly Child Care Costs

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Child care costs should not exceed the level

 

 

 

 

 

required to provide quality care from a

 

 

 

 

 

licensed source. See section 61.30(7), Florida

 

 

 

 

 

Statutes, for more information.]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

b.

Total Mo thly Child re ’s Health Insurance

 

 

 

 

 

Cost

 

 

 

 

 

 

[This is only amounts actually paid for

 

 

 

 

 

health insurance on the child(ren).]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(e), Child Support Guidelines Worksheet (09/12)

CHILD SUPPORT GUIDELINES WORKSHEET

 

 

 

 

 

A. FATHER

B. MOTHER

TOTAL

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

c.

Total Mo thly Child re ’s No

o ered

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Medical, Dental and Prescription

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Medication Costs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d.

Total Monthly Child Care & Health Costs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Add lines 5a + 5b +5c].

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6.

Additional Support Payments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Multiply the number on line 5d by the

 

 

 

 

 

 

per e tage o li e 3A to deter i

e the Father’s

 

 

 

 

 

 

share. Enter answer on line 6A. Multiply the

 

 

 

 

 

 

number on line 5d by the percentage on line 3B

 

 

 

 

 

 

to deter i e the Mother’s share.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Enter answer on line 6B.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Statutory Adjustments/Credits

 

 

 

7.

a. Monthly child care payments actually made

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

b.

Monthly health insurance payments actually

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

made

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

c.

Other payments/credits actually made for

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

any noncovered medical, dental and

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

prescription medication expenses of the

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

child(ren) not ordered to be separately paid

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

on a percentage basis.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(See section 61.30 (8), Florida Statutes)

 

 

 

 

 

8. Total Support Payments actually made

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Add 7a though 7c)

 

 

 

 

 

 

9. MINIMUM CHILD SUPPORT OBLIGATION FOR

 

 

 

 

 

 

EACH PARENT

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Line 4 plus line 6; minus line 8]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Substantial Time-Sharing (GROSS UP METHOD) If each parent exercises time-sharing at least 20

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

percent of the overnights in the year (73 overnights in the year), complete Nos. 10 through 21

A. FATHER

B. MOTHER

TOTAL

10. Basic Monthly Obligation x 150% [Multiply line 2 by 1.5]

Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(e), Child Support Guidelines Worksheet (09/12)

Document Overview

Fact Name Fact Detail
Document Title Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(e), Child Support Guidelines Worksheet (09/12)
Primary Use Completing this worksheet is necessary when child support is being requested in a case.
Income Documentation This form should be accompanied by a financial affidavit if you know the other party's income.
When to Complete The form must be completed after the other party files their financial affidavit and serves a copy on you if their income is unknown.
Filing Requirements The original form should be filed with the clerk of the circuit court in the county where the case is filed, and you should keep a copy for your records.
Service to the Other Party A copy of this form must be served on the other party in accordance with Florida Rule of Judicial Administration 2.516.
Guideline Amounts Child support amounts are calculated based on the number of children and the combined monthly income of the parents, divided in proportion to their income or earning capacity.
Income Conversion Instructions are provided for converting income and expense figures from other frequencies to monthly amounts.
Requesting Different Amounts If requesting a child support amount different from the guideline, a Motion to Deviate from Child Support Guidelines must be completed and attached.
Nonlawyer Assistance A nonlawyer helping fill out the form must provide a copy of a Disclosure from Nonlawyer and include their name, address, and telephone number on the form.
Governing Law The form and procedures are governed by section 61.30, Florida Statutes.

Instructions on How to Fill Out Florida Child Support Calculator

Filing for child support can often seem like navigating through a maze without a map. However, in the state of Florida, the process is made somewhat easier with the use of a specific form: the Florida Child Support Guidelines Worksheet, also known as Form 12.902(e). This form is crucial when one party is requesting child support as it helps calculate the amount of support that should be paid, based on both parties' incomes and the number of children involved. The worksheet uses a chart to guide calculations, ensuring the support amount aligns with Florida’s legal standards. To ensure you're compliant and have accurately filled out your form, follow these steps meticulously and double-check your work before submission.

  1. Ensure that you have the most current version of Form 12.902(e), the Child Support Guidelines Worksheet.
  2. Start by reading the instructions carefully to understand the information required and how the form should be completed.
  3. Type or print your answers in black ink to make sure the document is legible and meets filing standards.
  4. Gather financial information for both parties, including your monthly income and that of the other party, if known. If you do not know the other party’s income, wait until they have filed their financial affidavit and served a copy to you before completing the form.
  5. Refer to the Child Support Guidelines Chart included in the instructions to find the base amount of support corresponding to your combined monthly available income and the number of children.
  6. Adjust your income amounts to a monthly figure if they are not already in this format, using the conversion method provided in the instructions:
    • If payment is twice per month: Payment amount x 2 = Monthly amount
    • If payment is every two weeks: Payment amount x 26 / 12 = Monthly amount
    • If payment is weekly: Payment amount x 52 / 12 = Monthly amount
  7. Fill out each section of the form accordingly, ensuring all necessary fields are complete and accurate.
  8. If applicable, complete and attach a Motion to Deviate from Child Support Guidelines, using Form 12.943, to request a support amount different from the guideline.
  9. Before submitting the form, verify that all information is correct and that no required information is missing. Accuracy is key to ensuring the child support amount calculated is fair and in accordance with Florida law.
  10. File the original Form 12.902(e) with the clerk of the circuit court in the county where your case is filed. Remember to keep a copy for your personal records.
  11. Finally, serve a copy of this form on the other party in your case, following the rules outlined in Florida Rule of Judicial Administration 2.516.

After these steps are completed, the calculation provided by the Florida Child Support Guidelines Worksheet will have helped you propose a child support amount that reflects both parents' financial capabilities and the needs of the children involved. It’s a critical part of ensuring fairness and compliance with Florida's child support laws.

Listed Questions and Answers

When is it necessary to use the Florida Child Support Guidelines Worksheet?

The worksheet should be filled out when child support is being requested in your case. It's crucial to complete this form if you have information on the other party's income or after they have filed their financial affidavit and served a copy on you.

What steps should be taken after completing the worksheet?

After filling out the form, serve a copy on the opposing party according to Florida Rule of Judicial Administration 2.516. Ensure to file the original form with the clerk of the circuit court in the county where your case is being heard and retain a copy for your records.

Where can more information about the process be found?

For additional information, reviewing the "General Information for Self-Represented Litigants" at the beginning of the forms is recommended. Also, refer to section 61.30, Florida Statutes, for more details.

How often are the amounts in the child support guidelines chart updated?

The amounts in the chart may change periodically. It is vital to ensure you are using the most recent version of the chart for accurate calculations.

How should income and expenses be converted to monthly amounts?

For payments received twice per month, multiply by 2. If payments are bi-weekly, multiply the amount by 26 and then divide by 12. Weekly payments should be multiplied by 52, then divided by 12 to find the monthly amount.

What if the court is requested to deviate from the guideline amount?

If there's a request for child support that differs from the guideline amount, a Motion to Deviate from Child Support Guidelines must be completed and attached to your paperwork.

Can a nonlawyer help fill out these forms?

Yes, but the nonlawyer must provide you with a copy of the Disclosure from Nonlawyer form before assisting you. They also have to include their contact information at the bottom of every form they help with.

How is child support calculated for multiple children?

The guidelines provide amounts based on the combined monthly income of the parents and the number of children. This amount changes with income levels and the number of children, and it's shared between the parents according to their income or earning ability.

What documentation should I keep for my records?

Always keep a copy of the completed worksheet and any other documents filed with the court or served on the other party for your personal records.

What action should be taken if a parent's income changes?

If there’s a significant change in a parent's income, it may be necessary to modify the child support order. You should consult legal advice on how to proceed with modifying the child support agreement in court.

Common mistakes

Filling out the Florida Child Support Calculator form, also known as Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(e), is a critical step in ensuring the appropriate determination of child support payments. However, individuals often stumble on common pitfalls during the completion of this form. Awareness and careful avoidance of these missteps can significantly impact the accuracy of the support calculation. Let's explore nine common mistakes made during this process:

  1. Not Using the Most Recent Guidelines Chart: The child support guidelines chart is updated periodically. Using an outdated version can lead to incorrect support amounts.
  2. Incorrect Income Reporting: Either overestimating or underestimating income, including forgetting to include all sources of income, can distort the child support calculations.
  3. Failure to Convert Income Correctly: Not correctly converting weekly, bi-weekly, or twice per month payments to a monthly amount can result in inaccuracies.
  4. Not Accounting for All Children: If the non-custodial parent has other children they support, this can affect the calculation, but it's often overlooked.
  5. Omitting Health Insurance Costs: Health insurance costs for the children involved should be included in the calculation, a step that is sometimes forgotten.
  6. Incorrectly Dividing Parental Responsibility: The form requires information on the division of time the child spends with each parent, which can significantly influence the support amount but is often miscalculated or misunderstood.
  7. Overlooking Additional Expenses: Not including childcare, educational, and special needs expenses can lead to an inaccurate support amount.
  8. Not Filing a Motion When Applicable: If there’s a reason to deviate from the guideline amount, failing to complete and attach a Motion to Deviate from Child Support Guidelines can be a missed opportunity to present a fair argument.
  9. Improper Service: Once completed, the form must be correctly served on the other party in accordance with Florida Rule of Judicial Administration 2.516, which is sometimes done improperly.

It's essential for individuals completing the Florida Child Support Calculator form to approach the task with attention to detail and an understanding of the guidelines. Avoiding these common pitfalls can help ensure that the child support amount calculated is fair and accurate, reflecting the true needs of the child or children involved.

Documents used along the form

When dealing with child support calculations in Florida, the Child Support Guidelines Worksheet, as outlined in the form 12.902(e), serves as a crucial document in the process. However, to effectively navigate and substantiate the data required for this worksheet, individuals may need to utilize additional forms and documents. These supplementary documents help provide a comprehensive overview of the financial situation of both parties involved, ensuring that child support calculations are accurate and fair. They include:

  • Financial Affidavit (Short Form) - Form 12.902(b): This document is used when an individual’s annual income is less than $50,000. It provides a detailed account of their financial status, including assets, liabilities, income, and expenses.
  • Financial Affidavit (Long Form) - Form 12.902(c): For those earning more than $50,000 annually, this detailed form captures comprehensive financial information, including monthly household expenses, assets, liabilities, and all sources of income.
  • Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) Affidavit - Form 12.902(d): This affidavit is necessary when minor children are involved in the case. It provides information on the children's residence history, which is crucial for establishing jurisdiction over custody matters.
  • Parenting Plan – Form 12.995(a) or (b): This document outlines the agreement between the parents regarding the care, custody, and support of their children. It typically details parenting schedules, decision-making responsibilities, and how child support obligations align with shared parenting arrangements.
  • Notice of Social Security Number - Form 12.902(j): Required in family law cases, this form ensures that the social security numbers of both parents and the children are accurately recorded, which is essential for processing child support payments.
  • Child Support Guidelines Chart: Not a form per se, but an essential tool referenced by the Child Support Guidelines Worksheet. It helps calculate the appropriate childssupport amount based on the parents’ combined income and the number of children.

Gathering and accurately completing these forms can greatly facilitate the process of determining child support, as they offer a clear picture of the financial circumstances of both parents and the needs of the involved children. Having accurate and thorough documentation ready can simplify negotiations and assist in the creation of a fair and adequate child support arrangement, as dictated by Florida law.

Similar forms

The Florida Child Support Calculator form is similar to financial affidavit forms used in divorce and child custody cases. Financial affidavits are documents that require individuals to disclose their income, expenses, assets, and liabilities. Like the Child Support Calculator, they play a crucial role in legal proceedings by providing a foundation for determining financial obligations, such as child support or alimony. Both documents require detailed financial information to ensure that support orders are fair and reflect the parties' ability to pay. However, while the Child Support Calculator specifically focuses on calculating child support based on the parents' combined income and the number of children, financial affidavits cover a broader range of financial data, including individual expenses and debts.

Another document the Florida Child Support Calculator form closely resembles is the Income and Expense Declaration (FL-150) in jurisdictions like California. This form, similar to the financial affidavit, requires detailed information about an individual’s monthly income and expenses. Both the Child Support Calculator and the Income and Expense Declaration are designed to capture accurate financial pictures of the parties involved, which are critical for determining appropriate child support amounts. They both include sections for reporting income from all sources and calculating monthly expenses, although the Child Support Calculator is more narrowly focused on determining the proportional amount each parent should contribute to child support, directly impacting the outcome of that specific aspect of family law cases.

Dos and Don'ts

Filling out the Florida Child Support Calculator form accurately is crucial for determining the proper amount of support for your child. Here are some essential dos and don'ts to help guide you through the process:

  • Do ensure you have the most recent version of the child support guidelines chart before you start.
  • Do convert all your income and expenses figures to their monthly equivalents if they are not already in this format, using the conversion instructions provided.
  • Do complete the worksheet thoroughly, typing or printing in black ink to ensure legibility.
  • Do file the original worksheet with the clerk of the circuit court in the county where your case is filed and keep a copy for your records.
  • Do serve a copy of the form on the other party in your case, following the rules set forth in Florida Rule of Judicial Administration 2.516.
  • Don't leave any sections blank if they apply to your situation. Incomplete forms can lead to delays or inaccuracies in child support calculations.
  • Don't include your address or contact information on the form if you are a victim of crime (such as domestic violence or stalking) and want to keep your address confidential. Instead, file a Request for Confidential Filing of Address.
  • Don't guess the income of the other party. If you do not know it, wait to complete the form until after the other party has submitted their financial affidavit and served a copy on you.
  • Don't attempt to adjust the guideline support amount on your own if you believe a different amount is warranted. In such cases, you must complete and attach a Motion to Deviate from Child Support Guidelines.

Misconceptions

There are several common misconceptions about the Florida Child Support Calculator form, a tool used within the family law system to calculate financial support for children. Understanding these misconceptions can clarify the process for families navigating through child support calculations.

  • Misconception #1: The calculator results are just suggestions, not enforceable.
  • Contrary to this belief, the results from the Florida Child Support Calculator form are based on statutory guidelines and can be enforced by a court. These amounts are not merely advisory; they form the basis of court orders for child support.

  • Misconception #2: Only the income of the non-custodial parent is considered.
  • Both parents' incomes are taken into account when calculating child support. Florida's model is income shares, meaning the child support amount reflects what the child would receive if the parents were still together, based on both parents' combined income.

  • Misconception #3: My expenses will significantly lower my child support payments.
  • Individual expenses of the parents are largely irrelevant in calculating child support. The formula primarily focuses on the income of the parents and the number of children. Personal debts and obligations outside of basic necessities have little impact on the calculation.

  • Misconception #4: The form automatically accounts for shared custody arrangements.
  • While shared custody can impact the child support calculation, simply using the calculator without adjusting for the substantial amount of time the child spends with each parent can lead to inaccurate results. A more detailed analysis is required for shared custody situations.

  • Misconception #5: The calculated amount covers all expenses for the child.
  • The child support amount is intended to cover the child's basic needs, such as food, clothing, and shelter. It may not cover all expenses, such as extracurricular activities or college savings, which are often handled separately.

  • Misconception #6: Once set, the child support amount is fixed until the child turns 18.
  • Child support amounts can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances such as an increase or decrease in a parent's income, a change in custody arrangements, or a change in the child's needs. It is not automatically fixed until the child reaches the age of majority.

Understanding the factual basis and intent behind the Florida Child Support Calculator form can lead to clearer expectations and reduce conflict during the child support determination process.

Key takeaways

When you're tasked with filling out the Florida Child Support Guidelines Worksheet, known as Form 12.902(e), it's because child support is being requested in your legal case.

Ensure to complete this worksheet accurately, utilizing black ink for printing or typing, to facilitate the calculation of child support. This task is especially crucial if you're aware of the other party's income, as it helps in finalizing the financial aspects concerning child support.

The guidelines necessitate you file the original worksheet with the clerk of the circuit court in the county where the case is filed. Retaining a copy for your records is also advised, providing a personal backup of the filed documentation.

After filling out the form, it's mandatory to serve a copy to the opposite party. This process must adhere to the Florida Rule of Judicial Administration 2.516, ensuring all parties are rightfully informed.

For current and accurate calculations, verifying that you're using the most recent version of the child support guidelines chart is essential. The chart lists guideline amounts based on the number of children and the combined income of the parents.

When preparing the worksheet, converting your income and expense figures to monthly amounts may be necessary for accuracy. This involves specific calculations, depending on the frequency of your payments.

In cases where an amount different from the guideline is sought, completing and attaching a Motion to Deviate from Child Support Guidelines is required. This step offers a formal request for the court's consideration of an adjusted support amount.

The assistance from a nonlawyer in filling out the forms mandates that they provide you with a Disclosure from Nonlawyer before helping. They must also include their contact details on the last page of every form they help you complete, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Persons fearing for their safety due to being victims of various forms of violence or harassment have the option not to disclose their address information. Instead, they can file a request for Confidential Filing of Address to protect their location details.

Always seek the latest chart updates and legal criteria for child support calculations in Florida. These guidelines are periodically revised, meaning staying informed through reliable resources is crucial for accurate and compliant form completion.

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