Are You Making These 5 Common Child Support Mistakes in Ontario?

Child support disputes can be stressful and confusing. Many parents in Brampton and Orangeville make mistakes that can cost them thousands of dollars or create unnecessary legal headaches. The rules around child support are strict—and not knowing them can lead to big problems.

Below are the five biggest child support mistakes we see, and how you can avoid them:

1. Thinking Child Support Amounts Are Negotiable

Lots of parents try to figure out what feels “fair” at their kitchen table. But Ontario uses Federal Child Support Guidelines that aren’t optional—courts require them. Judges will not accept amounts lower than the tables, even if you and your ex agree.

Always use the child support tables as a starting point. If you think your situation is different, talk to a family law lawyer.

2. Believing Equal Custody Means Zero Child Support

Even in 50/50 custody, one parent usually pays child support. The law uses a “set-off” calculation: the higher-earning parent pays the difference between what each would owe. Shared custody doesn’t erase the need for child support.

3. Assuming Support Always Ends at 18

Support often continues if your child is in full-time school, has special needs, or can’t support themselves. Don’t stop payments without a court order or a formal agreement!

4. Not Calculating Income Properly

Support is based on gross income, not net/take-home. If you’re self-employed, receive bonuses, or have fluctuating income, it gets more complex. Get advice or use reliable tools to calculate your correct support amount.

5. Not Updating Support When Things Change

Lost a job, changed salaries, or kids’ needs changed? You must share new income details and may need to adjust support every year. Not updating can lead to arrears (money you owe) or legal trouble.

Section 7 Expenses

Don’t forget about “special” expenses like childcare, medical costs, or extracurricular activities. These are often split based on each parent’s income.

Keep Records & Get Help

Track payments, income info, and any changes. If in doubt, reach out to a family lawyer. Mistakes here can get expensive quickly and cause fights that impact your kids.

Need Child Support Advice?

The OMNI LAW GROUP team helps families in Brampton and Orangeville sort out child support and avoid expensive mistakes. Reach out if you have questions or want to update your agreement: Contact OMNI LAW GROUP