In Florida family law, few tools have transformed the landscape of child support calculations and mediation efficiencylike SASI Calc. Whether you’re a family law attorney, mediator, or self-represented party, understanding how to use this tool can streamline negotiations, improve compliance with Florida guidelines, and lead to better outcomes in mediation.
What is SASI Calc?
SASI Calc (State Automated Support Information Calculation) is the Florida Department of Revenue-approved software used by family law professionals to compute child support obligations under the Florida Child Support Guidelines (Chapter 61.30, Florida Statutes). It’s the gold standard in mediation and courtroom settings for producing accurate, guideline-compliant calculations.
The Calc Tool accounts for:
- Each parent’s gross income
- Health insurance premiums for the child
- Childcare costs
- Timesharing percentages
- Tax deductions and credits
Florida Mediation Services and Child Support
Florida courts require parties in divorce and paternity cases involving children to attempt mediation before proceeding to trial. Mediation services are provided both through court programs and private mediators, and child support is often one of the central—and most contentious—issues.
During mediation, accurate financial disclosure and guideline calculations are essential. This is where Calc toolplays a crucial role.
How SASI Calc is Used in Mediation: Practical Examples
Example 1: Divorce Mediation with Two Children
Let’s say John and Mary are mediating their divorce in Miami-Dade County. They have two minor children and have agreed to a 70/30 timesharing schedule in favor of Mary.
- John’s Gross Monthly Income: $6,000
- Mary’s Gross Monthly Income: $3,500
- John pays $400 for children’s health insurance
- Mary pays $300 in monthly daycare costs
- Timesharing: Mary has 255 overnights, John has 110
Using SASI Calc, the mediator inputs these figures to produce a guideline support amount. The software automatically adjusts the base support according to timesharing, healthcare, and childcare expenses.
The output might indicate that John owes Mary $684/month in child support under Florida law. The clear, detailed output generated by SASI Calc reduces argument and builds consensus.
Example 2: Modification of Child Support
Maria and Carlos had a prior child support agreement from 2018. Since then, Carlos’s income has significantly increased. They return to mediation seeking a modification.
- Old support order (2018): $250/month
- Carlos’s new monthly income: $9,000
- Maria’s income remains at: $2,800
The mediator uses SASI Calc to recalculate based on new financial disclosures. If the difference in calculated support exceeds 15% or $50 (whichever is greater), Florida law allows a modification.
This tool side-by-side comparison feature helps mediators and attorneys show both the previous and proposed support figures transparently—building a factual basis for agreement or court presentation.
Why SASI Calc is Indispensable in Florida Mediation
- Accuracy: The tool incorporates current statutory guidelines and tables.
- Efficiency: Instantly recalculates obligations based on new figures, perfect for mediation settings.
- Transparency: Shows how changes in income, parenting time, or expenses impact support.
- Legitimacy: Judges and magistrates rely on SASI Calc reports in hearings, making it the trusted standard.
Where to Access SASI Calc
- Florida Bar Family Law Section Members often receive access through professional memberships.
- Private Mediators and Law Firms typically purchase licenses for in-house use.
- Some Florida court circuits provide SASI Calc access to self-represented litigants during mediation.
Note: Always ensure you are using the latest version of S- Tool Calc, as the child support guidelines are periodically updated by the Florida Legislature.
Final Thoughts
Florida mediation services are only as effective as the tools they rely on. For child support issues, this tool brings precision, consistency, and legal compliance to the table. Whether you are negotiating support for the first time or seeking a modification, using SASI Calc can make the difference between drawn-out litigation and a smooth resolution.
For more on how to use SASI Calc or how it can support your mediation strategy, consult with a licensed Florida family law attorney or mediator trained in the latest support guidelines.
