Imputation of Income: Reasonable Efforts

Child support and spousal support obligations are a function of the payor’s income. Given this, some payors attempt to conceal or undervalue the income he/she earns.

In those circumstances, the recipient of support may choose to bring a motion before the Court with respect to the imputation of income. In that case, the question is whether the payor is capable of earning more money and whether the payor is purposely under-earning with the intent to reduce their support obligations.

However, in a situation where the payor of support has not been in the workforce for many years and has, thus, made no reasonable efforts to secure employment, can a Judge rule in his/her favor with respect to the issue of imputation of income?

In the case of Toscano v. Toscano, 2015 ONSC 487, Justice Blishen dealt with similar circumstances and rules as follows:

"Ms. Toscano was 46 years old at the time of trial, is in good health and has a Business Administration diploma. She had work experience both before marrying Mr. Toscano and with Talos Homes during the marriage. I recognize that Ms. Toscano has been out of the work force entirely for at least 13 years, and that her education and work experience continues to decrease each year she remains inactive. However, Ms. Toscano has presented no evidence that she has made any effort to obtain employment or upgrade her business administration skills in order to present a plan for her own support. Given that both children reside with Mr. Toscano, I find it reasonable that Ms. Toscano make all reasonable attempts to obtain employment perhaps in conjunction with re-training. I will impute income of $40,000 and order Ms. Toscano to pay $579 per month in child support for the children pursuant to the FCSG."

To learn more about imputation of income as well as the services provided by Krol & Krol, call 905.707.3370 today.