It’s dishearteningly common for individuals to conceal income to evade child support, leaving the recipient parent feeling swindled, knowing the actual earnings are significantly higher than what is being reported. The deceit not only disrupts the legal process but also jeopardizes the children’s financial security and welfare. Therefore, swift action to expose the hidden income is imperative. Please read on to understand more about this issue and the vital role of consulting an experienced Suffolk County Child Support Attorney for guidance.
What Are Common Methods of Hiding Income?
When it comes to divorce and child support, disputes over financial disclosure are not uncommon. Some spouses may resort to concealing their income to reduce their obligations or gain an unfair advantage. One of the primary tactics involves collecting income in cash. By demanding cash wages from an employer or clients, an individual can avoid a traceable financial record. This can make it difficult to verify the accurate amount of earnings they receive.
Another method is strategically deferring career advancements, such as promotions or bonuses. By postponing these financial gains, the individual may temporarily depict a lower income than their true earning potential. Once the legal matters have been resolved, they might accept the advancement. Those who are self-employed may exploit tax deductions and write-offs, blurring the lines between legitimate business expenses and personal expenditures. They can significantly reduce their reported net income, which will impact child support calculations.
In extreme cases, your ex may even intentionally avoid seeking employment. This can be used to evade the obligation of making child support payments altogether. However, courts often impute income in these scenarios, based on the individual’s earning potential and past employment history.
What Should I Do If I Suspect My Ex Is Concealing Income?
If you suspect that your ex is trying to conceal income to avoid paying their child support obligation, it’s important to understand that this is illegal and has several consequences. You have the right to pursue an adjustment to your current child support arrangement, whcih could mean increased future payments, repayment of past underpayments, and fines or other legal sanctions.
In child support or custody cases in New York, you can request complete financial disclosure from your ex. Refusal to provide this information can lead the court to mandate disclosure or draw negative conclusions. To uncover hidden income, concealed expenses, or inconsistencies between tax documents and lifestyle choices, you may need to enlist the help of a forensic accountant. If evidence of intentional income misrepresentation exists, your ex will face serious penalties.
For those considering divorce, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced attorney. The legal team at The Law Offices of Susan A. Kassel, P.C. understands the difficulties of this situation and is dedicated to safeguarding your rights. Contact our firm today to learn how we can assist you.
