North Carolina child support is generally determined by applying the state’s child support guidelines. Those guidelines are reviewed at least once every four years to help ensure they continue to meet the reasonable needs of children across the state.
New guidelines are scheduled to take effect in 2027. Here is what parents with a child support case should know.
How North Carolina Child Support Guidelines Work
The guidelines are used to calculate child support in many North Carolina cases. They provide a framework for determining support based on the parties’ financial circumstances.
Under North Carolina law, the calculation behind the guidelines must be re-examined at least once every four years to determine whether it is meeting the reasonable needs of the state’s children.
A Higher Income Limit for the Guidelines
One major change is an increase in the upper income limit. Beginning in 2027, the guidelines can apply when the parties in a child support case have combined income of up to $600,000.
When income is above $600,000, the guidelines no longer apply and child support is determined using a different method.
Guidance for One-Time Lump-Sum Payments
The new guidelines also give courts more clarity about how to handle large, one-time lump-sum payments. This can be an important issue when a party receives a significant payment that is not part of regular ongoing income.
Clearer Child Support Terms
The 2027 guidelines are also intended to clarify terms that have sometimes caused confusion for litigants, lawyers, and judges. Those terms include retroactive child support, prospective child support, and arrears.
Talk With McKnight Law About Your Child Support Case
Changes to the guidelines may affect how child support is calculated in your case. McKnight Law can help you understand the process and your options.
Watch the video below as McKnight Law explains the upcoming changes to North Carolina child support guidelines.
