Child Support Guidelines for Payor Spouses Earning Over $150,000

Section 4 of the Federal Child Support Guidelines provides the court with the discretion to deviate from the appropriate table amount in cases where the payor spouse's income is more than $150,000. This deviation arises when the court determines that the table amount of child support may be inappropriate given the circumstances. The starting point for support then becomes the table amount assuming an income of $150,000. The court can then order a quantum for the remainder of the child support that they deem appropriate based on the child's condition, needs, means, and other circumstances, as well as the financial ability of each spouse to contribute towards the support.