The Increase in Minimum Wage May Increase Your Child Support

 In 2016, the Michigan Legislature increased the minimum wage from $8.15 to $8.50 per hour. This latest increase won’t be the last one either.  The minimum wage is set to reach $9.25 per hour on January 1, 2018, as detailed here.

In Michigan, child support is determined by a complex mathematical formula.

If a parent does not work, courts usually determine that the parent has the ability to earn income.  Then, they will assign an income to that non-working parent based on the minimum wage.  This is known as imputing income. Therefore, when the minimum wage increases, any imputed income will also increase.

If your ex-spouse pays child support based on a minimum wage income, then you may be eligible for an increase in your child support. Parents can request an increase in child support so long as the change will equal either $50 or 10 percent more per month, whichever is greater.  If your ex was not working at the time of your child support order, consult an attorney. Due to the increase in the minimum wage, you may be missing out on an increase in child support.