What is child support?

Child support is a legal obligation for a parent (or both parents in some cases) to financially provide for their minor child(ren). In Washington, courts are required to order a parent to make “adequate financial support” for their children depending on the parents’ incomes. Generally, this includes providing basic needs such as food, clothing, and housing. Courts may also require that a parent pay for medical expenses, school fees, and other necessary costs associated with raising a child. Child support payments can be either agreed upon between the two parents or ordered by the court. When ordered by the court, the payments are made to the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) Office of Financial Recovery. They will then distribute the payments to the receiving parent. The amount of child support a parent is required to pay depends on the parents’ incomes, the number of children, and other relevant factors. The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) website provides an online calculator to help parents figure out the estimated amount of support that must be paid. Generally, the paying parent is required to make monthly payments until the child turns 18 or 19 (if they are still enrolled in high school). In some cases, child support payments may be required until the child is 21. Child support is a critical part of providing financial stability to children. It ensures that a child’s basic needs are met and that they have access to necessary resources to achieve their educational and other goals.

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What is child support?

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