Minnesota Child Support: Calculator and Regulations

Last Updated on October 26, 2023 by Lori Pace

Parents of children have an obligation to care for their child and provide for his or her needs. Although one parent may choose to separate, the obligations are still there. Child support ensures that both parents take care of their child. Hence, Minnesota Child Support Calculator and Regulations are in place as and enforcement so that the non-custodial parents receive a periodic payment. This payment is made by to the custodial child as a contribution towards the child’s upbringing.

The Process For Child Support After Divorce

The Minnesota Department of Human Services provides child support services for the custodial parent of minors. Apply for child support services in Minnesota by filling online form. Information required for the application include the name, address, telephone number, and employer details. The other (noncustodial parent). This information will assist the child support program in enforcing, collecting and paying child support.

The state uses the information to try and locate the other parent in order to move forward with the case. It is crucial to locate the noncustodial parent before a hearing can begin. This process is easier if you have information such as the last known address and social security number.

Confirmation of the Parent’s Location

Once the parent has been located, it may be necessary to establish paternity for the child. If the mother was married at the time the child was born or was conceived, her husband will automatically be considered the father. If the parents did not marry but still agree that the child belongs to them, they can sign a Recognizance of Parentage form. This form is legal acknowledgement of the child’s parentage.

A request for a genetic test is possible if there is any dispute about the father or alleged father of the child. they take samples from the mother, father, and child for analysis. Test results determines whether the man is the father of the child, or if there are more than 99 percent chances that he is. For more information on establishing paternity of the child, visit the Human Service Department website. Once the establishment of paternity, the court will review all information to establish child support orders.

Confirmation Of The Parents Location

How To Receive Child Support in Minnesota and Calculator System

Minnesota parents who receive child support have two options for getting their money. Direct deposit is the first option. Direct deposit is an electronic payment which allows automatic transfer of child support funds into the checking or savings account of the parent. Parents can opt to receive their child support payments as direct deposits by filling this online form.

Parents can also receive child support payments via the U.S. Bank ReliaCard. This is a debit-card that holds the funds of the noncustodial parent. You can use the ReliaCard for purchases in stores that accept card payments, or cash withdrawals from ATMs.

Parents can request an exemption from direct deposit or ReliaCard options. If this happens, the parents will receive the child support checks by mail. Parents who want to apply for this exception can fill the attached form.

Minnesota Child Support Calculator

They use the Income Shares model as child support calculator in Minnesota. In determining the amount to pay, it is important to consider both the gross incomes of each parent. Other factors include the number of children, their age, medical needs, time spent together (if there is shared custody), and any other child support obligations. So, visit the Minnesota court’s page for more details.

The state also maintains a Minnesota child support calculator. However, the calculated amount may not match the amount ordered by the court. The court is the final authority to decide the amount of child support orders. This calculator provides an estimate of what you can expect.

Enforcement of Child Support

Enforcement Of Child Support9

Enforcement actions are there against parents who fail to meet their child support obligations. Once certain criteria have been met, enforcement actions are taken. Parents who are in default with child support payments may face denials of passport applications, withholding student grant, charges interest on arrears and reporting to credit agencies.

They can do license suspensions, tax refund interceptions, seizing financial assets, and other enforcement actions. There are contempt proceedings in severe cases which could lead to the parent to jail. Even if the case is closed, all child support owed must be paid. For additional information on enforcement of child support orders, visit the Department of Human Service.

Lori Pace
Lori Pace

Lori Pace is a single mother of three daughters ages 7 and under. As a working mom from home, she balances kids, work and two crazy dogs with humor and love. Follow Lori as she honestly gives tips and advice based on her own experiences as a single mom!