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In the realm of child support within Alabama, the Child Support Income form plays a critical role in determining the financial contributions a parent must provide for their child or children. This essential document, formally known as the Income Statement/Affidavit (Form CS-41), requires detailed disclosures related to both employment and non-employment income, ensuring that all sources of financial support are accurately accounted for. Each parent involved in the proceedings—whether as a plaintiff or defendant—must provide various details, including their employment status, monthly gross income, and associated costs such as work-related childcare and health insurance premiums. The form is designed to present a comprehensive view of a parent's financial situation, listing not only salaries and wages but also other forms of income like self-employment revenue, dividends, and alimony from previous cases. Each item mentioned is significant, as it contributes to the court's ability to assess support obligations effectively. Furthermore, the form emphasizes the importance of transparency; parents must maintain documentation of their reported income to substantiate their claims and avoid the severe consequences of misinformation. By requiring a full disclosure of financial assets, the Child Support Income form aims to promote fairness and equity in child support determinations, safeguarding the welfare of children throughout Alabama.
Alabama Child Support Income Example
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APPENDIX D |
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State of Alabama |
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Case Number |
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Unified Judicial System |
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Form |
Rev. 5/17 |
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INCOME STATEMENT/AFFIDAVIT |
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IN THE ____________________________ COURT OF __________________COUNTY, ALABAMA |
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(Circuit or District) |
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(Name of County) |
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Plaintiff _____________________________ v. |
Defendant _________________________________ |
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AFFIDAVIT |
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I, ____________________________________________, being duly sworn upon my oath, state as follows : |
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(Name of Affiant) |
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1. I am the |
Plaintiff |
Defendant |
Other (please specify):_________________ in the above matter. |
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My Social Security number is: |
LAST THREE (3) DIGITS ONLY |
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2. I am |
currently employed. My employer’s name and address are: |
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_____________________________________________________________________ |
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_____________________________________________________________________
not currently employed.
My last employer’s name and address are: _______________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
Last position title: __________________________________________________________
Average monthly salary in the last year of employment: $ ___________________________
3. My monthly gross income includes:
(For example of income that must be included, see back of this form. If income varies by month, enter the estimated average monthly gross income.)
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Employment income |
$______________________________ |
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$______________________________ |
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Other |
$______________________________ |
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Other |
$______________________________ |
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Total |
$_______________________________ |
4. |
I incur the following amount monthly for |
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$______________________________ |
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(if none, write “None”) |
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The child(ren) of the parties is/are |
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not covered by health insurance from me and/or my employer.
covered by health insurance, and (1) I pay $_______ each month, or that amount is paid on my behalf each
month by my________, for the family policy coverage under which the child(ren) is/are covered; and (2) the total
number of persons covered under that policy is ________________.
The pro rata portion of the medical insurance premium attributable to the child or children who are the subject of the support order (which shall be calculated by dividing the total medical insurance premium actually paid by, or on behalf of, the parent ordered to provide the coverage by the total number of persons (adult and/or children) covered and then multiplying the result by the number of children who are the subject of the support order) is the sum of $_______________ .
6.I pay the following total amount for 
child support 
alimony in [a] prior case(s) as follows:
[List case number(s) and county(ies) and state(s) here]:
__________________________________________ $______________________________
(if none, write “None”)
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I understand that I will be required to maintain all income documentation used in preparing this Income Statement/Affidavit (including my most recent
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Affiant
Sworn to and subscribed before me this ______
day of _______________________, ________
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Notary/Clerk
Form
EXAMPLES OF INCOME THAT MUST BE INCLUDED IN YOUR GROSS MONTHLY INCOME
1.Employment Income – shall include, but not be limited to, salary, wages, bonuses, commissions, severance pay, worker’s compensation, pension income, unemployment insurance, disability insurance, and Social Security benefits.
2.
3.Other
4.Other
RULE 32, ALABAMA RULES OF JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION, PROVIDES THE FOLLOWING DEFINITIONS:
Income. For purposes of the guidelines specified in this Rule, “income” means the actual gross income of a parent, if the parent is employed to full capacity, or if the parent is unemployed or underemployed, then it means the actual gross income the parent has the ability to earn.
Gross Income.
“Gross income” includes income from any source, and includes, but is not limited to, income from salaries,
wages, commissions, bonuses, dividends, severance pay, pensions, interest, trust income, annuities, capital gains, Social Security benefits, workers’ compensation benefits,
insurance benefits, gifts, prizes, and preexisting periodic alimony.
“Gross income” does not include child support received for other children or benefits received from means- tested
For income from
expenses required to produce such income, as allowed by the Internal Revenue Service, with the exceptions noted in Rule 32 (B)(3)(b).
Under those exceptions, “ordinary and necessary expenses” does not include amounts allowable by the Internal Revenue Service for the accelerated component of depreciation expenses, investment tax credits, or any other business expenses determined by the court to be inappropriate for determining gross income for purposes of calculating child support.
Other Income. Expense reimbursements or
File Breakdown
| Fact Name | Description |
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| Form Title | This is officially known as the "Income Statement/Affidavit," designated as CS-41 and is specific to Alabama's child support proceedings. |
| Purpose | The form is designed for parties to report their income and expenses when determining child support obligations in the state of Alabama. |
| Governing Law | The guidelines for the use and requirements of the form are governed by Rule 32 of the Alabama Rules of Judicial Administration. |
| Income Reporting | Individuals must provide a detailed account of their gross income, which includes various forms of income such as salary, self-employment income, and other related earnings. |
| Monthly Child-Care Costs | Affiants must disclose any ongoing expenses for work-related child care, ensuring that these costs are accounted for in the financial assessment. |
| Health Insurance Disclosure | The form requires the reporting of any health insurance coverage for children, including monthly payments and the total number of persons covered. |
| Child Support Obligations | Affiants must list any amounts they currently pay for child support or alimony from previous cases, providing transparency about their financial commitments. |
| Penalties for Falsification | Any intentional inaccuracies in the form could lead to serious consequences, including penalties for perjury, emphasizing the importance of honesty. |
| Documentation Requirement | Affiants are required to maintain supporting income documentation for the information disclosed, which can be requested by the court. |
Guide to Using Alabama Child Support Income
The Alabama Child Support Income form is an important document that requires careful attention and accurate information. Completing this form helps ensure that all relevant financial details are disclosed, aiding the court in making informed decisions regarding child support obligations. Follow these steps to fill out the form correctly.
- Start by entering the case number at the top of the form.
- Identify the court’s name and county where your case is being heard. Fill in the court type (Circuit or District) and the name of the county.
- In the Plaintiff and Defendant sections, provide the required names.
- For the Affidavit section, write your full name as the affiant and specify whether you are the Plaintiff, Defendant, or Other.
- Enter your Social Security number, including only the last three digits in the designated space.
- Indicate your employment status by checking the box for either currently employed or not currently employed.
- If employed, provide your employer’s name and address. If not employed, list your last employer's details, including position title and average monthly salary from the last year of employment.
- Detail your monthly gross income by including employment income, self-employment income, and other income. Sum these amounts and enter the total.
- Report the total amount you incur each month for work-related child-care. If not applicable, write “None.”
- Specify whether the child(ren) are covered by health insurance. If so, enter the monthly premium cost and the total number of persons covered by the policy, along with the calculated pro rata share attributable to the children.
- Provide details of any amounts paid for child support or alimony in prior cases, including case numbers and amounts. If none, write “None.”
- Sign and date the affidavit section at the bottom of the form, ensuring you understand the documentation requirements and potential penalties for falsification.
- Finally, a notary or clerk must witness your signature and provide the date for verification.
After completing the form, ensure you keep copies of all receipts and documents mentioned. It’s essential to retain this information in case you need to present it to the court. Take your time to review the completed form for accuracy before submitting it to avoid delays or issues in your case.
Get Answers on Alabama Child Support Income
What is the Alabama Child Support Income form?
The Alabama Child Support Income form, also known as Form CS-41, is a document used in family law cases to provide an official record of a parent's gross income. It helps the court determine child support obligations by capturing the necessary financial details. The form requires information about current employment, past employment, income types, and expenses related to child care and health insurance.
Who needs to fill out the form?
Both parents involved in a child support case must fill out this form if they are appearing in court. It can either be the person receiving support (the plaintiff) or the person paying support (the defendant). It’s essential for accurately calculating child support responsibilities.
What do I need to include as my income?
You must include various types of income on this form. Common sources of income include:
- Employment income like salary or wages
- Self-employment income from businesses you own
- Other employment-related income such as bonuses or housing allowances
- Non-employment-related income like dividends, gifts, or alimony
It's crucial to be thorough and accurate in reporting these figures to avoid complications later.
What if I am unemployed or underemployed?
If you're unemployed or working less than your capability, the form requires you to note the gross income you could potentially earn based on your skills and experience. The court will consider this information when determining your financial responsibility.
How is health insurance handled on the form?
You need to specify whether the children are covered by health insurance through your employer or by you as an individual. Include the monthly premium you pay and the total number of individuals covered by the policy. The court will use this data to ensure fair allocation of health care costs in the child support calculation.
What if I have other child support obligations?
Address any current child support or alimony obligations in the appropriate section of the form. You'll need to provide the case numbers, counties, and states of those prior cases, along with the payment amounts. This disclosure helps the court see the full picture of your financial commitments.
Do I need to provide documentation?
Absolutely! You must keep documentation that supports the income figures you report on the form. This includes tax returns, pay stubs, and other financial records. The court can request these documents, so it’s wise to stay organized and prepared.
What happens if I provide false information?
Intentionally providing false information on the form can lead to serious consequences, including the possibility of perjury charges. Honesty is vital; the court relies on accurate data to make informed decisions about child support. If in doubt, it’s better to consult a legal professional for guidance.
Where do I submit the completed form?
Once you've filled out the Alabama Child Support Income form, you submit it to the court handling your child support case. Make sure to follow any specific filing instructions provided by the court. Keeping a copy for your records is always a good idea!
Common mistakes
Filling out the Alabama Child Support Income form can be a complex process. Common errors can significantly impact the outcome of child support determinations. First, many people fail to provide accurate gross income figures. It is crucial to include all sources of income, including bonuses, commissions, and self-employment earnings. Neglecting to report varied income can lead to discrepancies, which might affect the support obligation.
Another frequent mistake is related to employment status. Applicants sometimes do not clearly indicate if they are currently employed or unemployed. Accurate disclosure is essential. If one is not working, stating their last employer and the date of separation is necessary to provide a complete picture of their financial situation.
A third error arises from estimating monthly income without clear calculations. Individuals often include income estimates without supporting documentation. This can lead to inflated or inaccurate figures. The form requires an average of the last year’s earnings, and failing to correctly calculate this average can skew child support amounts unfairly.
Many individuals also overlook childcare costs. If parents incur monthly work-related expenses for childcare, these should be disclosed. Failure to report these expenses can result in a lower child support obligation than what may be necessary to meet the children's needs.
Important health insurance details are sometimes neglected as well. Parents may not specify whether the children are covered by health insurance. This information is crucial in calculating the total support obligation, so it must be accurately noted, and the related costs must be outlined correctly.
In addition, omitting previous child support obligations is a common oversight. If the applicant pays child support in existing cases, they must document those amounts clearly. Leaving this section blank can mislead the court regarding the individual's overall financial obligations.
Individuals also often fail to keep adequate documentation. The form states that all income documentation must be maintained, including recent tax returns. Not having this documentation available can complicate matters later, especially if the accuracy of the affidavit is called into question.
Finally, some parents provide incomplete or incorrect social security numbers. This number is crucial for verifying identities. Any inaccuracies can create issues in processing the form and can delay the child support determination process.
Documents used along the form
When navigating child support matters in Alabama, it's essential to use several documents in addition to the Alabama Child Support Income form. Each of these documents helps clarify financial situations and supports the court's determinations regarding child support obligations. Here are some key forms that are often used alongside the Income form:
- Child Support Obligation Worksheet: This document calculates the expected child support amount based on both parents' incomes and related expenses. It helps ensure that calculations are fair and consistent.
- Parenting Plan: A parenting plan outlines each parent's responsibilities and time-sharing with the children. It may include specifics about holidays, vacations, and day-to-day care.
- Income Verification Documents: These may include pay stubs, tax returns, and bank statements. They verify the income figures reported on the Income form and provide a clear picture of financial resources.
- Medical Insurance Information: This document details any health insurance coverage for the children. It identifies the policyholder and outlines the premiums paid, which can affect child support calculations.
- Childcare Expense Documentation: Receipts or statements showing monthly childcare costs. These expenses are often considered when calculating child support obligations.
- Proof of Other Support Obligations: Documentation that shows previous child support or alimony payments. This can demonstrate financial responsibilities that may reduce available income for future obligations.
By gathering these documents, parents can present a thorough and accurate picture of their financial circumstances. This not only helps in achieving fair child support agreements but also aids the court in making informed decisions that serve the best interests of the children involved.
Similar forms
- Income Affidavit: Similar to the Alabama Child Support Income form, this document provides a detailed account of an individual’s income sources, employment status, and financial obligations. It includes declarations made under oath to ensure accuracy and accountability.
- Financial Disclosure Form: This form is used in divorce proceedings to disclose all financial assets, income sources, and liabilities, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of both parties' financial situations, much like the child support income form.
- Child Support Guidelines Worksheet: Similar in purpose, this worksheet helps calculate the appropriate child support amount based on income details and expenses, facilitating decisions in child support cases.
- Wage Verification Form: Employers complete this form to confirm an employee’s earnings and employment status, providing essential information parallel to that in the child support income affidavit.
- Tax Return: The information provided on individual tax returns is comparable, as it reflects overall income and deductions that can affect child support calculations.
- Expense Statement: This document outlines regular expenses such as housing, childcare, and healthcare, much like the Alabama Child Support Income form that accounts for relevant costs when determining obligations.
- Affidavit of Support: Often used in immigration proceedings, this affidavit also details the financial means of a sponsor, similar to how the Alabama Child Support Income form discloses income and financial responsibilities.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the Alabama Child Support Income form, it’s important to be thorough and accurate. Here are five do's and don'ts to keep in mind:
- Do provide your full name and correct Social Security number. Accuracy is key.
- Do include all sources of income. This includes wages, bonuses, self-employment income, and any other money you receive.
- Do indicate if you have health insurance for your child. Specify the amount you pay monthly and the number of people covered.
- Don't omit any prior child support or alimony payments. List them clearly to avoid penalties.
- Don't provide false information. Misrepresentation can lead to serious consequences.
Following these tips will help ensure that the form is completed correctly, paving the way for a smoother process.
Misconceptions
The Alabama Child Support Income form is an important document for determining child support obligations. However, various misconceptions about this form can lead to confusion. Below are some common misconceptions explained.
- Misconception 1: The form is only for parents with a steady job.
- Misconception 2: Only salary needs to be reported.
- Misconception 3: Child support calculations do not consider health insurance premiums.
- Misconception 4: Prior child support payments do not have to be disclosed.
- Misconception 5: The court does not verify the income information.
- Misconception 6: You can skip reporting self-employment income.
- Misconception 7: The form does not require documentation.
- Misconception 8: Only one parent can file the form.
This form is applicable to all parents, regardless of their employment status. It includes provisions for those who are self-employed, unemployed, or underemployed.
Many individuals believe that only their salary needs to be included in the income calculations. In reality, all sources of income must be reported, such as bonuses, rental income, and unemployment benefits.
Some assume that health insurance costs are irrelevant. However, the form explicitly requires details about health insurance premiums, which can affect the final child support obligation.
Individuals often overlook the requirement to report previous child support or alimony payments. This information is crucial for the court to make an informed decision about current obligations.
This belief is incorrect. The court has the right to verify the income reported on the form. Providing false information may lead to serious legal consequences.
Self-employment income must also be submitted on the form and includes income from businesses, partnerships, or sole proprietorships. This information is essential for an accurate assessment.
While filling out the form, parents must maintain accurate documentation of their income. This includes tax returns and any other relevant financial records. Documentation will likely be requested for verification.
Both parents have the right to file the form as needed. The child support obligations are determined based on the information provided by both parties, ensuring a fair assessment.
Key takeaways
Key Takeaways for Filling Out the Alabama Child Support Income Form
- Provide accurate personal information. Include your name, role in the case (plaintiff or defendant), and Social Security number—only the last three digits are required.
- Indicate your employment status clearly. Specify if you are currently employed or not, and if previously employed, provide details of your last employer, including name and address.
- Report all sources of income. Include employment income, self-employment income, and any other income that contributes to your gross monthly income. Be thorough, as this information is essential for calculating child support obligations.
- Document work-related child-care expenses. If applicable, specify the monthly amount spent. If there are no expenses, indicate "None."
- Clarify health insurance coverage for the child(ren). If covered, state the monthly premium amount and total number of people insured under the policy. This information affects the overall calculation of support obligations.
- List any prior child support or alimony obligations. Provide case numbers and details of prior cases, ensuring accurate reporting of these amounts as they will be considered in the current case.
- Maintain all supporting documentation. Keep records of income, tax returns, and relevant documents on hand, as you may be required to present them in court.