What Happens to My Child Support if I Remarry?
Remarrying doesn’t automatically affect the child support you receive, but under certain circumstances, it can. Modifications must be based on material and substantial changes in circumstances since the most recent child support orders were entered, and – for them to be legally binding – they must be obtained through the court. If you have questions or concerns about your child support order, an experienced Harrisburg child support attorney can help.
Your Marriage
Remarrying after divorce doesn’t, in and of itself, rise to the level of being a material and substantial change in circumstances. There are factors related to remarriage, including your ex’s, that can play a role in how your child support payments are calculated.
While your new spouse has no obligation to support your children financially, their income could reduce your expenses, such as the following:
- Your mortgage payment
- Your utility costs
- Your household’s groceries
This means that less of your income will go directly to these expenses, which frees up funds for supporting your children.
If your ex remarries and has another child, it could potentially lower the child support you receive. The State of Pennsylvania considers the paying parent’s total financial obligation to support their children. If your ex’s obligation – including in relation to their new child – amounts to less than 50 percent of their monthly net income, you’re not likely to experience a decrease in child support payments, but if it’s over 50 percent, your support could be reduced. The goal here is to treat each child fairly, regardless of when they were born.
Typically, the parent with a visitation schedule pays child support to the primary custodial parent. If your remarriage affects your child custody arrangements, it could affect child support in your case. For example, if, with your remarriage, you take on the primary custodial role, you may be entitled to child support, and if your remarriage leads to your ex taking on this role, the child support obligation may shift to you.
Discuss Your Case with an Experienced Harrisburg Child Support Attorney Today
Maria Cognetti is a trusted Harrisburg child support attorney at Cognetti Law Group who is well acquainted with the legal intricacies of child support and is committed to fiercely advocating for your case’s most favorable resolution. Your case will play an important role in your ability to provide for your children, and our seasoned legal team has the experience, insight, and resources to help. For more information about what we can do for you, please reach out and contact us online or call 717-909-4060 today.