According to child support guidelines, what generally correlates with the amount of support ordered?

The amount of child support ordered is primarily determined by the income of the parents. Child support guidelines typically take into account the resources available to each parent, as this directly affects their ability to contribute financially to the child's upbringing. Courts assess both parents' incomes to arrive at a fair support amount, ensuring that the child’s needs are met in a manner similar to if the parents were still together.

While the number of children, the educational level of the custodial parent, and the time spent with the child may play roles in the overall consideration of child support, they do not directly correlate with the established financial guidelines for support in the same way that parental income does. These guidelines are structured to reflect income levels in order to promote fairness and equity in support obligations, which ultimately prioritizes the financial capacity of both parents to support their child.