How Child Support Is Calculated in Ontario
Child support in Ontario is based on the Federal Child Support Guidelines. The main variables are:
- The paying parent’s gross annual income: The table amount is determined by the payor’s province of residence and the number of children.
- Number of children: More children generally means a higher support amount.
- Parenting arrangement: If the child lives mainly with one parent (at least 60% of the time), the other parent pays the table amount. If parenting time is roughly equal, both incomes are factored in.
What Are Section 7 Special Expenses?
In addition to the base table amount, parents also cover certain extra expenses. These are called Section 7 expenses. They include:
- Childcare costs include daycare, babysitting, and after-school programs
- Medical and dental expenses not covered by insurance
- Extracurricular activities that are significant relative to the family’s lifestyle
- Post-secondary education costs
- Private school or tutoring fees
These expenses are divided proportionally based on each parent’s income. Our lawyers ensure every applicable expense is properly identified and included in your agreement or court order.
When Child Support Disputes Arise
Hidden or Underreported Income
Some parents underreport their income to reduce what they owe. We know how to spot the signs. When necessary, we work with forensic accountants to uncover the true picture of income and ensure your children receive what they are entitled to.
Self-Employment and Business Owners
Business owners and self-employed individuals often have complicated income structures. We analyze business returns, shareholder draws, and corporate income to accurately calculate support.
Changing an Existing Support Order
If either parent’s income changes significantly or if the parenting arrangement changes, child support can be varied. We help with both agreed variations and formal court motions to change.
Enforcing Child Support in Ontario
If a parent stops paying, the Family Responsibility Office (FRO) steps in. The FRO has strong enforcement tools, including:
- Garnishing wages and bank accounts
- Suspending driver’s licences
- Intercepting federal payments such as tax refunds
We help both recipients pursue enforcement and payors resolve FRO issues quickly and correctly.
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Your Child Support Questions
How do I know if my child support amount is correct?
The Federal Child Support Guidelines tables are publicly available. However, calculating correctly, especially with self-employment income, shared custody, or multiple children, requires careful analysis. We review existing orders and agreements to confirm the numbers are right.
Can child support be changed after a court order?
Yes. A material change in circumstances, such as a significant income change or a change in parenting arrangement, is grounds to vary the order. We handle both agreed variations and contested motions to change.
When does child support end in Ontario?
Generally, when a child turns 18 and is no longer a full-time dependent. But support can continue for adult children in full-time post-secondary education. Our lawyers advise on when and how support obligations change.
Child support is your child’s right. We make sure it is calculated and paid correctly. Call Unified LLP at 416.787.7678 for a free consultation.
