What Is Child Support?
Child support is a legal obligation for parents to financially contribute to the care and upbringing of their children after separation or divorce. In British Columbia, child support is governed by the Federal Child Support Guidelines, which provide a standardized table-based approach to calculating support amounts.
How Is Child Support Calculated?
The amount of child support is primarily determined by the paying parent's income and the number of children. The Guidelines provide province-specific tables — for BC, monthly support amounts are based on annual income ranges.
- Table amount: The base monthly payment based on income and number of children
- Section 7 expenses: Proportional sharing of special and extraordinary expenses such as childcare, healthcare, and education
What Are Section 7 Expenses?
Section 7 of the Guidelines covers special or extraordinary expenses that are shared proportionally between parents based on their incomes. Common Section 7 expenses include:
- Childcare costs
- Medical and dental expenses beyond insurance
- Extracurricular activities
- Post-secondary education costs
Can Child Support Be Changed?
Yes. Child support can be varied if there is a change in circumstances, such as a significant change in either parent's income, a change in custody arrangements, or the child reaching the age of majority.
Conclusion
Navigating child support can be complex, especially when incomes change or disputes arise. At Law Boutique, our family law team provides clear, practical guidance to protect your children's best interests.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a qualified lawyer for advice specific to your situation.