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The non-residential parent is obligated to pay child support to the residential parent. The amount of child support is mandated by guidelines determined by the Florida Legislature. The guidelines are based upon the combined incomes of the parties and the percentage that each party contributes to the combined income. A formula calculates the percentage of income provided by the non-residential parent, the costs for child care and health insurance. The amount of child support is determined as a result of these calculations and is not an amount that is agreed to by the parties. Under certain circumstances the amount of child support may be adjusted either up or down a total of no more than 5%. The non-residential parent's obligation to provide child support does not hinge on the visitation with the children. Therefore, the refusal of the residential parent to permit visitation, or the non-residential parent's refusal to exercise visitation does no eliminate the obligation to pay child support.
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