Child support guidelines in Massachusetts outline the requirements and calculations for determining the financial support to be provided by noncustodial parents for their children. These guidelines are aimed at ensuring that children receive adequate support for their well-being and development. The Massachusetts Child Support Guidelines are primarily based on the income shares model, which considers the parents' incomes, the number of children, and various expenses related to child-rearing. The guidelines help establish a consistent and fair approach to child support determination. The Massachusetts Department of Revenue (FOR) is responsible for administering the child support guidelines and enforcing child support orders. They provide a comprehensive set of guidelines to assist parents and courts in making accurate and appropriate child support calculations. Here are some relevant terms and phrases related to child support guidelines in Massachusetts: 1. Income Shares Model: This is the primary method used to determine child support obligations, which considers the combined gross incomes of both parents. 2. Child Support Calculation: The process of determining the amount of child support owed, taking into account factors such as parents' incomes, child-related expenses, health insurance, and childcare costs. 3. Financial Affidavit: A document required by the court that outlines each parent's financial status, including income, assets, and liabilities. It helps determine child support obligations. 4. Deviations: In certain cases, the court may deviate from the standard child support guidelines. Deviations may be allowed when there are extraordinary medical or educational expenses or if the parenting plan deviates significantly from the norm. 5. Parenting Time: The amount of time each parent spends with the child can affect child support calculations. More parenting time may result in a reduction in child support obligations. 6. Supplemental Guidelines: Massachusetts provides additional guidelines for situations involving shared physical custody, low-income parents, and high-income parents. 7. Modification: Child support orders in Massachusetts can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a change in income, health insurance coverage, or childcare costs. 8. College Expenses: Massachusetts law allows for the allocation of college expenses between parents in addition to regular child support obligations. Overall, the child support guidelines in Massachusetts aim to ensure that children receive the financial support they need for their well-being while considering the financial capabilities and circumstances of both parents.