What is Imputed Income & How it Impacts Georgia Child Support Orders

When it comes to child support in Georgia, the court wants to ensure that children receive fair and adequate financial support—regardless of whether a parent is fully employed, underemployed, or not reporting their true earnings. That’s where imputed income comes in.

If you’re dealing with a co-parent who claims they “don’t make enough to pay support,” or you’ve experienced a sudden income drop yourself, this blog is for you.

What Does “Imputed Income” Mean?

Imputed income is a legal term that refers to income a court assigns to a parent—even if they aren’t currently earning it—based on what they could or should be making.

In Georgia, courts may impute income when a parent:

• Is unemployed without a valid reason
• Is working below their earning capacity
• Has inconsistent or self-reported income that can’t be verified
• Suddenly reduces income during a custody or support case

The idea is simple: You can’t avoid paying child support just by earning less on paper.

How the Court Determines Imputed Income

Judges in Georgia use several factors to estimate a parent’s earning potential:

• Employment history
• Educational background
• Market wages for their skillset
• Past tax returns or pay stubs
• Lifestyle and spending habits

For example: If a parent who used to earn $70,000/year suddenly claims they now earn $20,000 by working part-time—but has no good reason for the shift—the court can still calculate support based on their prior or potential income.

Real-Life Scenarios Where Imputed Income Applies

• A high-earning parent quits their job during a divorce to avoid paying high child support.
• A self-employed parent underreports income or mixes personal and business expenses.
• A parent chooses not to work despite having marketable skills or job opportunities.
• A parent intentionally delays job searching or re-entering the workforce.

Can Imputed Income Be Challenged?

Yes—but you’ll need strong documentation.

If your income drop is due to a health condition, layoff, or career change for valid reasons, the court may consider your current earnings fair. It’s crucial to provide:

• Medical documentation
• Job search efforts or proof of unemployment
• Evidence of education or retraining

Why This Matters in Georgia Child Support Cases

Georgia uses an income-shares model, meaning both parents’ incomes are considered in support calculations. If one parent underreports, the burden unfairly shifts to the other.

Imputing income helps balance this and ensures the child’s needs come first—especially when one parent is doing their part and the other is not.

How We Help at South Atlanta Family Law

We regularly work with parents to:

• Present strong evidence for why income should (or shouldn’t) be imputed
• File for modifications when circumstances change
• Fight back against bad-faith income claims in court

Whether you’re seeking fairness or trying to avoid an unfair order, we’re here to help you make your case with confidence.

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📞Wondering if your child support order is fair? Need help proving your true income—or theirs?

Schedule a consultation with us by calling 404-494-0027 or by visiting www.southatlantafamilylaw.com. We’ll help you protect your rights and your child’s future.

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