As a parent preparing to begin a divorce in Illinois, there’s no doubt your children are your number one priority. And they should be. You love your kids and want the world for them. So now that you’re getting a divorce, how do you make sure they get the financial support they’re entitled to and their needs are put first above all else?

That’s where child support in Illinois comes in.

And there’s a lot more to determining Illinois child support than you might think.

What is the purpose of Illinois child support?

Child support is one of four important topics that must be discussed, negotiated, and resolved by a couple during divorce mediation along with:

The purpose of child support is to ensure that the divorcing spouses are meeting the financial needs of a couple’s children.

However, it’s essential to recognize that child support encompasses more than just financial considerations.

Many parents think the purpose of child support is to make sure they have enough money after they’re divorced to pay for the items their kids need. But that’s only partially correct. Divorce is complicated on your children. The fighting and stress can really take a toll on them. Soon, you will no longer be husband and wife, but you’ll always be Mom and Dad.

Child support payments show your kids you still and will always love them and you care about their welfare.

There are a few things you need to know about the challenges of determining IL child support:

  • The Illinois child support guideline doesn’t include all the expenses required to raise a child, and it isn’t applicable in all situations, such as those with variable income, or large bonuses.
  • While inflation appears to be under control, economic uncertainty continues as parent’s ability to make ends meet is challenged due to the persistent higher cost of living, and increased mortgage rates.
  • The IL child support guidelines were last revised in a meaningful way in 2019, so if another revision is around the corner, how do parents who are divorcing now handle any changes which are yet to come?
  • This topic has less to do with Illinois child support laws and more to do with money, negotiation, and doing what’s best for your kids.
  • There is more than meets the eye on this issue and in the majority of cases, the subject of child support in Illinois is much too complex to try to resolve on your own.

That’s why you and your spouse will get the best result by mediating with us.

"Most parents think the Illinois state child support guidelines output a specific dollar amount and that’s that. But the reality is the guidelines are just a starting point for negotiations. Plus there are a lot of expenses not covered by the basic child support payment amount.

That's why the best way to come to a fair agreement and ensure your children get the financial support they need is to work with an experienced mediator like me."

Joe Dillon headshot

Joe Dillon | Divorce Mediator & Founder

How has the IL child support calculator evolved, and how does it now work?

Federal law requires all 50 states to have a mechanized way by which to determine child support. So every state has a child support guideline and the formulas vary from state to state. The guidelines are meant to help parents determine a minimum amount of child support to be paid, in an attempt to ensure their children’s financial well-being, post-divorce.

Previously, Illinois used something called the Percentage of Obligor Net Income model. This model simply took a percentage of the net income of one parent (spouse) and gave it to the other parent (spouse) based on the number of children the couple had together.

But now things have gotten a whole lot more complicated.

Illinois switched over to something called an Income-Shares model. This model takes into account a wide variety of factors including, but not limited to:

  • The number of children;
  • The incomes of both parties;
  • The number of overnights the children spends with each parent;
  • Who takes the child(ren) as a tax deduction;
  • And who pays for their health insurance.

Behind the scenes, the guideline tries to estimate the minimum an average couple in the state of Illinois would spend on their children based on the number of children in question, and the incomes of both parties.

But here’s the thing…

You’re not an average couple. And your kids don’t deserve the minimum.

Typically, most couples disagree with the dollar amount the Illinois child support guideline outputs. Especially those that live in Chicago, Evanston, or Northbrook where the cost to raise kids is much higher than the state average. And why wouldn’t they?

Who do you think knows how much you really spend on your kids. You? Or the state of Illinois?

Free Mini-Course: The Essential Guide to Divorce Mediation

Learn what mediation is, how it works, and how to determine if it’s the right option for you.

The IL child support guideline can be a formula or a suggestion.

Even though it may look like it, the IL child support calculator is not a formula, but rather, simply a guideline that suggests to divorcing parents an amount to pay child support. Meaning…

The child support guidelines in Illinois are open to interpretation.

And can be just a starting point for negotiation.

Don’t forget, this guideline was developed by The state of Illinois. But the state of Illinois doesn’t know the exact payment amount required to ensure your kids are properly supported so they’ll thrive.

Only you know what it truly costs to raise your kids!

It’s really up to you and your spouse to decide whether or not you want to follow the output of the Illinois child support calculator. Or negotiate an amount that’s more appropriate for your children instead. Which is not so easy to do given the nature of divorce.

A lot is excluded from the Illinois child support guidelines.

So far, you’ve learned child support in Illinois is determined by a guideline that outputs an amount that’s open to negotiation.

But you also need to understand that while basics such as food, shelter, and clothing are covered, there are still many other expenses that aren’t.

And as a parent, you know there’s so much more involved than just feeding your kids and putting a roof over their head!

There’s also:

  • Daycare;
  • Sports, dance lessons, and other extra-curricular activities;
  • Music lessons;
  • Braces;
  • Religious celebrations such as Bar/Bat Mitzvahs or Confirmations;
  • Laptops and smartphones;
  • Car insurance;
  • Summer camps;
  • And the list goes on and on…

All of these are known as “extraordinary” expenses and are not included in the basic child support calculation. These items must be discussed and negotiated separately to ensure your children get the financial support they need and deserve.

Starting to see why determining child support is not so simple in an Illinois divorce case?

There are other exclusions to Illinois child support.

In addition to the regular and “special” costs associated with raising a child, there are even more issues that need to be addressed in the child support discussion.

Such as:

  • Life insurance to ensure the children’s financial well-being;
  • Paying for college;
  • How long child support is paid;
  • Under what conditions child support may be modified or stopped (because for some children, it may extend beyond age 18).

Making the list of what is not resolved by using the calculator longer and longer.

So as you can see, determining child support in Illinois is a very complicated undertaking.

In order to determine child support, you will first need to agree on maintenance.

As if all of this wasn’t complicated enough, guess what? Since the Illinois child support guideline takes into account the incomes of both parties, you and your spouse will first need to agree on a maintenance amount, before you can agree on a child support amount. Because maintenance is considered a reduction in income for the party that is paying it, and an increase in income for the party receiving it. And those new incomes for each of you will need to be inputted into the guideline calculator.

Maybe you’re wondering, “How am I going to know how much maintenance I can afford to pay, or will need to receive until we get this child support amount sorted out?” It’s kind of a “chicken and egg” thing, isn’t it?

When the law gets involved, it’s a problem.

There’s something you need to understand here: In a litigated divorce, a family law judge determines child support in court. Sounds scary, doesn’t it?

Because that judge will dictate child support by court order and both spouses might wind up with something they don’t think is fair or that doesn’t appropriately meet the needs of their children.

That’s why it’s better for parents to negotiate this issue and that’s exactly what mediation is all about.

In Illinois, when you use mediation, you get to decide – and come to an agreement that puts your children first and you both agree is fair – out of court – instead of letting a stranger decide a child support order for you.

You’ll get the best result by mediating with us.

Child support issues will vary based on your situation and circumstances. And as you’ve learned, there is more than meets the eye on this topic. So don’t risk putting your children’s financial future in jeopardy by trying to resolve child support on your own.

It’s better to mediate child support (and your divorce) with us instead.

Using our extensive knowledge of the complex matters of child support in IL, we’ll help you and your spouse determine a child support amount that accurately reflects your lives as parents and takes into consideration the specialized needs of your children.

One that covers all regular, extraordinary, and future expenses.

  • We’ll talk about what it will take to make sure your kids get what they need and deserve. Not just what the formula says you have to pay so they can “get by.”
  • Guide you through the difficult, but necessary conversations and educate you on how the decisions you’re making will impact your children now and in the future.
  • Help you negotiate any issues of disagreement so you can create an agreement you both find fair and equitable regarding the support of your children.
  • Make sure your agreement improves cash flow, minimizes tax issues, and avoids penalties whenever possible.

Because no two situations are alike.

Your children are unique and your child support agreement should reflect that, too.

Take your first step towards a peaceful divorce

Guide to Chicago Divorce Mediation Services

Divorce mediation is a process whereby a couple works with a neutral, unbiased third-party known as divorce mediator to help them resolve the issues of divorce. It offers couples a more peaceful alternative to litigation when ending a marriage. As a personal process tailored to your specific circumstances, mediation provides a supportive environment focused on problem-solving rather than confrontation. The objective is to help both parties work together to reach a resolution that addresses everyone’s needs, including those of any children involved.

Mediation’s goal is to help you, and your spouse find mutually beneficial (“win-win”) solutions. Unlike traditional court proceedings, which are often “win-lose.” Mediation allows couples to discuss both required legal matters, as well as issues outside the scope of typical divorce litigation. These may be things like future co-parenting arrangements as children get older, introducing children to new romantic partners, or creative financial solutions such as delaying the sale of a home. This comprehensive approach enables both parties to make informed decisions about their future while maintaining control over the outcome.

Perhaps most significantly, mediation is also the most cost-effective path forward for divorcing couples. Traditional litigation can be extremely expensive and time-consuming, costing in excess of $100,000, while mediation helps parties reach an agreement in a fraction of the time, and for a fraction of the cost. This efficiency not only saves money but also reduces the emotional strain on all involved parties, allowing them to move forward with their lives more quickly and positively.

In Illinois, divorce mediation is conducted either privately or publicly. Private mediation is not mandated by the court and is entered into by the parties voluntarily, with negotiations taking place outside of the courtroom. Whereas public mediation is court-ordered and mandated by a judge in an attempt to prevent the parties from reaching litigation. It may or may not take place in a courtroom.

Private mediation is not mandated by the court or a judge. The couple chooses to mediate first, and do so, voluntarily. So if you and your spouse both want to use mediation, you’d hire a private divorce mediator like Joe, which is typically done before you file for divorce. Joe will then guide you through his comprehensive mediation process and help you identify, discuss, negotiate and resolve all of the issues surrounding your divorce, privately and confidentially.

On the other hand, if you choose to litigate using a divorce attorney, you’d likely be sent to court-ordered, family law mediation. Many counties in Illinois, including Cook county, have court ordered mediation proceedings whereby a couple litigating will be required to engage in custody and parenting time mediation and an economic (financial) mediation session offered through the family courts.

And while we’re always pleased when couples mediate, no matter what route they took to get there, we feel there are a number of shortcomings with court-ordered mediation:

  • First, you don’t get to choose your professional like you would with private mediation. So you could end up with someone you don’t like, or you’re not comfortable working with.
  • Second, the approved individuals on the court roster may not be the most experienced. The only requirement to get on the Illinois court-ordered mediator roster is to take a 40-hour training class. So many new mediators get their start in the courts and have little or no “real-world” experience.
  • Finally, what if your issues are so complex that even if the court certified mediator isn’t fresh out of training, they still aren’t experienced handling unique issues like yours? While it may be possible to reach agreements through the court’s mediation program, we strongly feel private mediation produces a far better outcome.

For couples without minor children, there are two issues which need to be negotiated and agreed upon: maintenance and property division. Whereas for cases involving minor children, issues including co-parenting responsibilities and child support, will also need to be discussed and agreed upon.

There are significant differences between mediation and using lawyers ranging from the number of professionals involved, approach, cost, speed, control, tone, and more. Highly qualified mediators like us can help you and your family reach highly-customized and lasting agreements, in a less stressful and non contentious manner. So you can remain civil, and if you have children, be the great co-parents they’re counting on you to be.

Read: Mediation vs Divorce Lawyer, to compare these options and learn the many benefits we believe mediation provides.

Since no two mediators are alike, the actual mediation process will vary from professional-to-professional. But here’s a high-level overview of what happens throughout the process once you become our client:

To kick things off, your first mediation session will be a one-hour strategy session. In this session, Joe will help you both prepare for mediation by:

  • Developing a framework for your negotiations;
  • Identifying key areas of concern you each have;
  • Defining your goals for the process;
  • Directing you to begin gathering important financial documents;
  • And instructing you on how to work together to complete our proprietary forms and worksheets.

This part of the process is intended to help you, and Joe to define what a successful mediation will look like and greatly increase the chances you will come to an agreement.

Once you’ve submitted requested pre-work and discovery items to us, the mediation process transitions to negotiations.

Joe will meet with you and your spouse virtually – and guide you through a series of conversations encompassing the issues that need to be settled in your divorce. Each session lasts approximately 2-hours, and the number and frequency of sessions are determined by the details of your divorce, and the complexity of the issues you face.

If areas of disagreement arise in a mediation session, Joe will use his expertise in a variety of dispute resolution techniques to help you negotiate and overcome any impasses encountered along the way.

Once agreement is reached for all required issues, Joe will then draft a complex written document called a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), outlining all decisions made during your negotiations. You will be encouraged to have your written agreement reviewed by your own respective lawyer; however it is your decision whether or not to do so.

Once you both agree the MOU looks good, you will then hire a filing professional who will assist with the paperwork preparation process. Your divorce papers may include, but are not limited to, the uncontested divorce filing, the divorce complaint, the marital settlement agreement, and budgets, along with a host of other related Illinois court paperwork. It’s important to note there are attorney and non-attorney filing professionals and it is your choice of which professional you use to have your divorce filed with the court. Upon receipt of the proper documentation and filing fees, your uncontested judgement of divorce will be granted by a judge as there is no waiting period in Illinois.

Our mediation process is very efficient and can be completed in a fraction of the time that a litigated divorce or collaborative law process would take.

Learn more about how you benefit by mediating with us.

Making decisions about your future during divorce can feel overwhelming, especially when the path ahead seems uncertain. We understand this challenge, which is why we’ve developed our proprietary Change of Circumstance Scenario Planning technique to help you create agreements that stand the test of time. Through our carefully designed process, we guide you through exercises that address not only your present situation but also your short, medium, and long-term future. Together, we craft comprehensive agreements that account for each of these time periods, ensuring all necessary issues are thoroughly addressed.

What sets our approach apart is our forward-thinking framework that allows for future adjustments to be performed by you and your spouse. Our agreements include highly-detailed language that allows for appropriate modifications when needed, helping families avoid costly litigation down the road. This innovative approach is just one example of how we help our clients leave mediation with thorough, comprehensive agreements that provide both immediate clarity and long-term flexibility.

The total cost of mediation varies greatly and is dependent on a number of factors including, but not limited to:

  • The experience and expertise of the mediator;
  • The thoroughness of their process (if they even have one);
  • The comprehensiveness of the services they;
  • The relationship dynamic between the parties and willingness to compromise and negotiate the issues.

You can work with an inexperienced mediator for a lower hourly rate or flat-fee, but then once mediation is completed, spend another few thousand dollars to have your agreement re-written by attorneys (and/or tens of thousands of dollars in the future to address missed issues.) Or you can work with an experienced mediator whose fee might be higher, but who delivers a more thorough service, written agreement, and resolution on both present and known/potential future issues, which will save you money, time and stress in the long run. Mediation is not “cheap divorce” but it is cost-effective with the average cost of a mediated divorce in Chicago ranging from $6,000 to $10,000.

To learn more, read: The Real Truth Behind Divorce Mediation Costs

Divorce mediation is usually a practical option for your divorce if:

  • There’s a level of mutual respect between you and your spouse, and you’re both willing to actively participate;
  • You’re both prepared to engage in a “good faith,” honest negotiation requiring full disclosure;
  • You’re willing to respect each other’s specific needs and interests, and recognize compromise is a key component of any agreements reached;
  • You want a competent divorce expert to help facilitate negotiations between you and your spouse and to provide options for you to both consider, but you both want to make your own decisions and retain full control over your divorce agreement. If one of you wishes to mediate, and one does not, unfortunately mediation will not be an option for you.

Yes. We believe strongly that in order to remain skillful in our field, we must remain dedicated exclusively to mediating family matters of divorce and separation. We do not mediate commercial, civil, elder, or community matters like others (who also mediate divorces) do. Matrimonial issues are complex and in our opinion, require a mediator to be singularly focused.

Unlike an attorney, a mediator cannot give legal advice or tell you what to do. Parties who choose to work with a mediator wish to make their own decisions on issues such as custody or property division, instead of being told what to do by an attorney.

Think of mediators like conductors in an orchestra. Conductors lead the symphony, and mediators lead the mediation process. But conductors don’t make the music, just like mediators don’t make the decisions for the parties. Yet without a conductor, or a mediator, the divorce proceedings would get off track, and the participants wouldn’t know what to do.

Learn more about divorce mediation.

Divorce mediation is a subset and is focused on helping married couples peacefully and cost-effectively end their marriage. Whereas divorce and family mediation is broader in scope, with mediators helping parties also resolve matters related to family, but not directly related to divorce. For example, creating a visitation / child custody arrangement for a child of a Chicago couple who is unmarried, or assisting with the property division of a family-owned business.

The term “alternative dispute resolution” or ADR for short, refers to any dispute resolution process that eliminates the parties need to hash out their issues and matters in court. Mediation is simply one type of ADR processes. Other common types may include, but are not limited to, collaborative divorce, arbitration, peace circles, and restorative justice. The idea behind ADR is to keep the parties out of expensive and damaging litigation, and instead, with the help of a neutral third party, for parties to reach agreement without having to go to court.

While most people think of divorce and dissolution of marriage as the same thing, in some states they are not.

Some practitioners think of a divorce as being contested, and dissolution of marriage as being uncontested. That is, in a dissolution of marriage, the issues were all handled privately, and many of the steps in a traditional divorce process were skipped (such as hiring an attorney or going to court).

In Illinois, it is common for people to use the terms divorce and dissolution of marriage interchangeably, but as non-attorney mediators, we can’t fully comment on the accuracy of this statement, nor its legal impact on a divorce case.

In Illinois, an uncontested divorce, also commonly known as a no-fault divorce, is one in which the parties are able to resolve, and come to agreement on, all of their issues, without the need to hire an attorney / attorneys and needing to have the matters decided in court.

When parties can work with a private mediator, all divorces in theory are uncontested divorces. Because a highly skilled Illinois divorce mediator will be able to help a divorcing couple resolve, and come to agreement on, all issues privately. In turn, eliminating the need for either party to hire an attorney and go to court.

One thing that’s important to note, and admittedly it’s a bit of a technicality, is that an “uncontested divorce” isn’t really a “no-fault divorce.” Every divorce has a fault; it’s just that in the case of a divorce process that uses a neutral third-party to come to agreement, the “fault” is commonly referred to “irreconcilable differences.”

Why Trust Equitable Mediation

Equitable Mediation Services is a trusted and nationally recognized provider of divorce mediation, serving couples exclusively in California, New Jersey, Washington, New York, Illinois, and Pennsylvania. Founded in 2008, this husband-and-wife team has successfully guided over 1,000 couples through the complex divorce process, helping them reach amicable, fair, and thorough agreements that balance each party’s interests and prioritize their children’s well-being. All without involving attorneys if they so choose.

At the heart of Equitable Mediation are Joe Dillon, MBA, and Cheryl Dillon, CPC—two compassionate, experienced professionals committed to helping couples resolve the financial, emotional, and practical issues of divorce peacefully and with dignity.

Joe Dillon, MBA – Divorce Mediator & Financial Expert

As a seasoned Divorce Mediator with an MBA in Finance, Joe Dillon specializes in helping clients navigate complex parental and financial issues, including:

  • Physical and legal custody
  • Spousal support (alimony) and child support
  • Equitable distribution and community property division
  • Business ownership
  • Retirement accounts, stock options, and RSUs

Joe’s unique blend of financial acumen, mediation expertise, and personal insight enables him to skillfully guide couples through complex divorce negotiations, reaching fair agreements that safeguard the family’s emotional and financial well-being.

He brings clarity and structure to even the most challenging negotiations, ensuring both parties feel heard, supported, and in control of their outcome. This approach has earned him a reputation as one of the most trusted names in alternative dispute resolution.

Cheryl Dillon, CPC – Certified Divorce Coach & Client Advocate

Cheryl Dillon is a Certified Professional Coach (CPC) and the Divorce Coach at Equitable Mediation. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and completed formal training at The Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching (iPEC) – an internationally recognized leader in the field of coaching education.

Her unique blend of emotional intelligence, coaching expertise, and personal insight enables her to guide individuals through the emotional complexities of divorce compassionately.

Cheryl’s approach fosters improved communication, reduced conflict, and better decision-making, equipping clients to manage the challenges of divorce effectively. Emotions have a profound impact on shaping the divorce process, its outcomes, and the future well-being of all involved.

What We Offer: Flat-Fee, Full-Service Divorce Mediation

Equitable Mediation provides:

  • Full-service divorce mediation with real financial expertise
  • Convenient, online sessions via Zoom
  • Unlimited sessions for one customized flat fee (no hourly billing surprises)
  • Child custody and parenting plan negotiation
  • Spousal support and asset division mediation
  • Divorce coaching and emotional support
  • Free and paid educational courses on the divorce process

Whether clients are facing financial complexities, looking to safeguard their children’s futures, or trying to protect everything they’ve worked hard to build, Equitable Mediation has the expertise to guide them towards the outcomes that matter most to them and their families.

Why Couples Choose Equitable Mediation

  • 98% case resolution rate
  • Trusted by over 1,000 families since 2008
  • Subject-matter experts in the states in which they practice
  • Known for confidential, respectful, and cost-effective processes
  • Recommendations by therapists, financial planners, and former clients

Equitable Mediation Services operates in:

  • California: San Francisco, San Diego, Los Angeles
  • New Jersey: Bridgewater, Morristown, Short Hills
  • Washington: Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland
  • New York: NYC, Long Island
  • Illinois: Chicago, North Shore
  • Pennsylvania: Philadelphia, Bucks County, Montgomery County, Pittsburgh, Allegheny County

Schedule a Free Discovery Call to learn if you’re a good candidate for divorce mediation with Joe and Cheryl.

Related Resources

  • Illustration of a California map overlayed with a house icon and dollar sign beside a mediator discussing spousal support options with a couple. Need clear guidance on alimony in California? Call Equitable Mediation at (877) 732-6682 to schedule your consultation today.

    Alimony in California: A Divorce Mediator’s Complete Guide to Navigating Spousal Support

    Find out how alimony in California works and how you can prevent your spousal support negotiation (and divorce) from turning into a disaster!

  • Illustration of a California map overlayed with a house icon and dollar sign beside a mediator discussing spousal support options with a couple. Need clear guidance on alimony in California? Call Equitable Mediation at (877) 732-6682 to schedule your consultation today.

    New Jersey Alimony Guide: How Spousal Support is Really Calculated

    Determining alimony in NJ is very challenging. Learn what you need to know about this complex topic and how to get a fair alimony agreement.

  • Illustration of a California map overlayed with a house icon and dollar sign beside a mediator discussing spousal support options with a couple. Need clear guidance on alimony in California? Call Equitable Mediation at (877) 732-6682 to schedule your consultation today.

    New York Alimony Negotiations: a Guide to Spousal Support Settlements

    Despite the use of a formula, agreeing on New York alimony is still difficult! Find out what you need to know and how to best resolve it.