Does the amount of parenting time affect child support?
Yes. Under the Federal Child Support Guidelines, if a parent has the child 40% or more of the time (shared parenting), both parents' incomes are used in the calculation and the set-off method applies. Below 40%, the non-resident parent pays the full Table amount based on their income alone.
What is the 40% threshold for shared parenting in Canada?
A parent with at least 40% of parenting time (approximately 146 days per year) qualifies for the shared parenting child support formula. Courts calculate time across the entire year including holidays, school breaks, and regular schedule.
Can we agree on any custody arrangement?
Parents can agree to any schedule that serves the child's best interests. Courts will generally approve agreed arrangements. The key legal test is always 'the best interests of the child' under the Divorce Act (federal) or provincial family law.