Child Support FAQ

Is child support taxable?

Child support is not taxable to the party that receives support, and is not tax deductible to the party paying support.

What is a temporary child support order?

If a lawsuit has been filed for child support, it is possible that you will have a temporary child support order entered after a short hearing, and a permanent child support hearing will be held at a later date.

What if a parent’s income is difficult to determine?

In certain cases, the determination of the income of a party may be complex, particularly where one party is self-employed and the expenses and lifestyle of a party appear to exceed the income reported. An analysis of living expenses and business and financial records may be required.

Who pays for health, dental and vision insurance and expenses?

A court can order one party to provide health insurance benefits. The court can also enter an order requiring each party to pay a share of health, dental, vision, prescription, orthodontic and therapy expenses.

When is wage garnishment used to collect child support?

When enforcement of child support becomes challenging, a court may enter an order for a party’s wages to be garnished in order to pay a child support obligation. The support amount is then collected and distributed through the North Carolina Centralized Collection Agency.

What if our child is in private school or for some reason needs to attend private school?

The parties can agree to terms regarding attendance and payment for private school. A court may order the payment of private school if the circumstances, needs of the child and available resources merit the continuation of a private school education versus a public school education.

Do child support orders include provisions for college tuition?

A court does not have the authority to order a party to pay for college. However, the parties can agree to make provisions for the payment of college tuition, room, board and expenses and can agree to contribute to a college savings account.

Do child support orders include provisions for purchase of life insurance?

A court does not have the authority to order a party to secure child support with a life insurance policy as a form of child support. However, it might be a good idea to do so where the parties can afford it, and the parties may agree to an amount and term of life insurance and provisions regarding beneficiaries.

A North Carolina family law attorney from Vitale Family Law can explain child support and advise you on how to protect your rights and your children’s best interests. Call 919-841-5680 or send an email message and learn how to get started.