This will help the judge understand the basic economic circumstances of the parents. Income of a new spouse or another adult in your household is generally not considered in determining the basic amount of child support. However, that information must also be included in the worksheets. If income information is not available for a parent, for example, because the parent cannot be found, the court can assume that parent earns an amount equal to the state average for workers of the same age and sex. That state average income can be used to fill out the worksheets.
Some parents quit working to try to avoid paying child support.
If a parent is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed, the court can use a figure based upon the average incomes for workers in the state, or on some other reasonable basis. If one parent lives in another state, it may be difficult to change an existing support order in this state. In certain circumstances, the courts in the other state may need to be used instead. Each state has its own laws regarding child support. You are advised to consult with an attorney if the other parent lives in another state.