A court in Kentucky uses several criteria to make an appropriate child support determination for during a child support hearing. In Kentucky, parents are obligated to support a minor child until the child turns age 18 when the child is a full-time student, but not beyond the school year when the child turns age 19. Here is some more information about elements considered in a Kentucky child support case:

Income Sources

Child support in Kentucky is calculated based on the combined gross income of both parents. Gross income includes:

• Salaries
• Commissions
• Overtime
• Unemployment
• Worker's compensation
• Disability
• Pensions
• Gifts
• Severance

Child Support Factors

In Kentucky, the court will consider the following factors prior to awarding child support:

• Ordered current maintenance for prior spouses
• Ordered current support for other children
• Support for other children who reside with the parent
• Child care expenses
• Health insurance costs

Non-Income Based Child Support Factors

In addition to an income-based child support obligation, a judge may order a parent to:

• Add a child to the parent's health care coverage. If a non-custodial parent has access to health insurance, a Kentucky court may expect a parent to contribute
• Provide cash medical support. If a non-custodial parent does not have access to health coverage, a Kentucky court may expect a parent to contribute to a public, managed care plan in order to support a child's medical needs

For more information about factors considered in a child support order in Kentucky, speak with a qualified attorney in Kentucky or refer to the Kentucky Child Support Guidelines.