Child Support

### Is child support tax deductible for the payer? - [ ] Yes, always. - [ ] It depends on the state’s law. - [x] No, it is not deductible. - [ ] Yes, for low-income payer only. > **Explanation:** Child support payments are not tax-deductible for the payer according to federal tax laws. ### Are child support payments considered taxable income for the recipient? - [ ] Yes. - [ ] Sometimes, depending on the state. - [x] No, they are not. - [ ] Only if the recipient is unemployed. > **Explanation:** Child support payments are not considered taxable income for the recipient under federal law. ### What is a common result of failing to pay child support? - [ ] An increase in child support obligation. - [x] Wage garnishment and other legal consequences. - [ ] The receiving parent must pay a late fee. - [ ] Automatic extension of payment deadline. > **Explanation:** Non-compliance with child support obligations can result in wage garnishment, license suspensions, and other legal steps to enforce payment. ### Who typically determines the amount of child support? - [x] Court based on state guidelines - [ ] The payer alone - [ ] The recipient alone - [ ] A neutral accountant > **Explanation:** The amount of child support is usually determined by the court based on state-specific guidelines considering both parents' income and the child’s needs. ### What is the primary purpose of child support? - [ ] To equalize financial status of ex-spouses - [ ] To settle property disputes - [ ] To cover legal fees - [x] To support welfare and upbringing of the child > **Explanation:** The primary purpose of child support is to contribute to the welfare and upbringing needs of the child post-divorce or separation. ### Can child support agreements be modified? - [x] Yes, if there's a significant change in circumstances - [ ] No, they are always final - [ ] Only if both parents agree - [ ] Rarely, only in extreme cases > **Explanation:** Child support agreements can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a change in the needs of the child or the financial status of either parent. ### Is alimony the same as child support? - [ ] Yes, they are interchangeable - [ ] Yes, but only in certain states - [ ] No, they are similar but have slight differences - [x] No, they serve different purposes > **Explanation:** Alimony (or spousal support) is financial support paid to an ex-spouse, whereas child support is intended to benefit the upbringing of the child. They serve distinct purposes. ### Can non-payment of child support result in jail time? - [x] Yes, in extreme cases - [ ] Never, it’s a civil matter - [ ] Only if payments are delayed by over five years - [ ] No, alternative penalties are applied first > **Explanation:** Non-payment of child support can, in extreme cases, lead to jail time as part of the legal enforcement measures. ### What major factor is considered when determining child support payments? - [ ] The parents' marital status history - [ ] The income of the grandparents - [ ] The number of siblings - [x] The income of both parents > **Explanation:** The income of both parents is a significant factor considered in determining child support payments to ensure fair allocation of financial responsibility. ### Can child support payments be made directly to the child? - [ ] Yes, once the child reaches 14 years old. - [ ] Only in mutual agreement situations. - [ ] Yes, but only in certain states. - [x] No, payments must be made to the custodial parent or through a state agency. > **Explanation:** Child support payments are typically made to the custodial parent or through a state agency, not directly to the child.