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Structure

In the realm of family law, transparency and honesty about one's financial status are fundamental. This truth is no more apparent than in the state of Florida, where the completion of a Financial Affidavit Short Form, officially known as Form 12.902(b), plays a crucial role in various family law proceedings, including divorce, child support, and alimony cases. The form is designed to provide a concise yet comprehensive overview of an individual's financial situation. In essence, it requires the declarant to disclose income, assets, liabilities, and regular expenses, thereby painting a clear picture of their financial health. The importance of this document cannot be overstated, as it is pivotal in guiding courts to make informed decisions regarding financial matters that significantly affect the lives of the involved parties. The process of completing the form demands attention to detail and accuracy, underscoring the necessity for individuals to thoroughly understand their financial standing and report it transparently. With its straightforward structure, the Form 12.902(b) embodies the judicial system's commitment to fairness and is a testament to the fundamental principle that justice in financial matters begins with clear and honest disclosure.

Document Sample

INSTRUCTIONS FOR FLORIDA FAMILY LAW RULES OF PROCEDURE FORM 12.902(b), FAMILY LAW FINANCIAL AFFIDAVIT (SHORT FORM) (01/15)

When should this form be used?

This form should be used when you are involved in a family law case which requires a financial affidavit and your individual gross income is UNDER $50,000 per year unless:

(1)You are filing a simplified dissolution of marriage under rule 12.105 and both parties have waived the filing of a financial affidavit;

(2)You have no minor children, no support issues, and have filed a written settlement agreement disposing of all financial issues; or

(3)The court lacks jurisdiction to determine any financial issues.

This form should be typed or printed in black ink. After completing this form, you should sign the form before a notary public or deputy clerk. You should file the original with the clerk of the circuit court in the county where the petition was filed and keep a copy for your records.

What should I do next?

A copy of this form must be served on the other party in your case within 45 days of being served with the petition, if it is not served on him or her with your initial papers. Service must be in accordance with Florida Rule of Judicial Administration 2.516.

Where can I look for more information?

Before proceeding, you should read “General Information for Self-Represented Litigants” found at the beginning of these forms. The words that are in bold underlinein these instructions are defined there. For further information, see Florida Family Law Rule of Procedure 12.285.

Special notes...

If you want to keep your address confidential because you are the victim of sexual battery, aggravated child abuse, aggravated stalking, harassment, aggravated battery, or domestic violence, do not enter the address, telephone, and fax information at the bottom of this form. Instead, file Request for Confidential Filing of Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.980(h).

The affidavit must be completed using monthly income and expense amounts. If you are paid or your bills are due on a schedule which is not monthly, you must convert those amounts. Hints are provided below for making these conversions.

Instructions to Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(b), Family Law Financial Affidavit (Short Form) (01/15)

Hourly - If you are paid by the hour, you may convert your income to monthly as follows:

Hourly amount

x

Hours worked per week =

Weekly amount

Weekly amount

x

52 Weeks per year

=

Yearly amount

Yearly amount

÷

12 Months per year

=

Monthly Amount

Daily - If you are paid by the day, you may convert your income to monthly as follows:

Daily amount

x

Days worked per week

=

Weekly amount

Weekly amount

x

52 Weeks per year

=

Yearly amount

Yearly amount

÷

12 Months per year

=

Monthly Amount

Weekly - If you are paid by the week, you may convert your income to monthly as follows:

Weekly amount

x

52 Weeks per year

=

Yearly amount

Yearly amount

÷

12 Months per year

=

Monthly Amount

Bi-weekly - If you are paid every two weeks, you may convert your income to monthly as follows:

Bi-weekly amount

x

26

=

Yearly amount

Yearly amount

÷

12 Months per year

=

Monthly Amount

Semi-monthly - If you are paid twice per month, you may convert your income to monthly as follows:

Semi-monthly amount x

2

=

Monthly Amount

Expenses may be converted in the same manner.

Remember, a person who is NOT an attorney is called a nonlawyer. If a nonlawyer helps you fill out these forms, that person must give you a copy of a Disclosure from Nonlawyer, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.900(a), before he or she helps you. A nonlawyer helping you fill out these forms also must put his or her name, address, and telephone number on the bottom of the last page of every form he or she helps you complete.

Instructions to Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(b), Family Law Financial Affidavit (Short Form) (01/15)

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE

 

 

JUDICIAL CIRCUIT,

IN AND FOR

 

 

COUNTY, FLORIDA

 

 

 

 

Case No.: ______________________

 

 

 

 

Division: _______________________

 

,

 

 

 

Petitioner,

 

 

 

and

 

 

 

 

,

 

 

 

Respondent.

 

 

 

FAMILY LAW FINANCIAL AFFIDAVIT (SHORT FORM)

(Under $50,000 Individual Gross Annual Income)

I, {full legal name}

 

 

 

 

, being sworn, certify that the following

information is true:

 

 

 

 

My Occupation:

 

 

 

Employed by: ___________________________

Business Address: ________________________________________________________________

Pay rate: $

 

( ) every week (

) every other week ( ) twice a month ( ) monthly

( ) other: ____________

 

 

 

___ Check here if unemployed and explain on a separate sheet your efforts to find employment.

SECTION I. PRESENT MONTHLY GROSS INCOME:

All amounts must be MONTHLY. See the instructions with this form to figure out money amounts for anything that is NOT paid monthly. Attach more paper, if needed. Items included under “other” should be listed separately with separate dollar amounts.

1.$______ Monthly gross salary or wages

2.______ Monthly bonuses, commissions, allowances, overtime, tips, and similar payments

3._______Monthly business income from sources such as self-employment, partnerships, close corporations, and/or independent contracts (gross receipts minus ordinary and necessary expenses required to produce income) (Attach sheet itemizing such income and expenses.)

4._______Monthly disability benefits/SSI

5._______Monthly Workers’ Compensation

6._______Monthly Unemployment Compensation

7._______Monthly pension, retirement, or annuity payments

8._______Monthly Social Security benefits

9.______ Monthly alimony actually received (Add 9a and 9b)

9a. From this case: $ _______

9b. From other case(s): _______

10._______ Monthly interest and dividends

11._______Monthly rental income (gross receipts minus ordinary and necessary expenses

Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(b), Family Law Financial Affidavit (Short Form) (01/15)

required to produce income) (Attach sheet itemizing such income and expense items.)

12._______ Monthly income from royalties, trusts, or estates

13._______ Monthly reimbursed expenses and in-kind payments to the extent that they reduce personal living expenses

14._______ Monthly gains derived from dealing in property (not including nonrecurring gains)

15._______ Any other income of a recurring nature (list source) _________________________

16.__________________________________________________________________________

17.$ _______ TOTAL PRESENT MONTHLY GROSS INCOME (Add lines 1–16)

PRESENT MONTHLY DEDUCTIONS:

18.$______Monthly federal, state, and local income tax (corrected for filing status and allowable dependents and income tax liabilities)

a.Filing Status ____________

b.Number of dependents claimed _______

19._______ Monthly FICA or self-employment taxes

20._______ Monthly Medicare payments

21._______ Monthly mandatory union dues

22._______ Monthly mandatory retirement payments

23._______ Monthly health insurance payments (including dental insurance), excluding portion paid for any minor children of this relationship

24._______ Monthly court-ordered child support actually paid for children from another relationship

25._______Monthly court-ordered alimony actually paid (Add 25a and 25b)

25a. from this case: $ _______

25b. from other case(s):$ _______

26.$_______ TOTAL DEDUCTIONS ALLOWABLE UNDER SECTION 61.30, FLORIDA STATUTES (Add lines 18 through 25).

27.$_______ PRESENT NET MONTHLY INCOME (Subtract line 26 from line 17)

Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(b), Family Law Financial Affidavit (Short Form)(01/15)

SECTION II. AVERAGE MONTHLY EXPENSES

Proposed/Estimated Expenses. If this is a dissolution of marriage case and your expenses as listed below do not reflect what you actually pay currently, you should write “estimate” next to each amount that is estimated.

A. HOUSEHOLD:

 

Mortgage or rent

$ _______

Property taxes

$_______

Utilities

$_______

Telephone

$ _______

Food

$ _______

Meals outside home

$_______

Maintenance/Repairs

$ _______

Other: __________

$_______

B. AUTOMOBILE

 

Gasoline

$ _______

Repairs

$_______

Insurance

$_______

C.CHILD(REN)’S EXPENSES

Day care

$ _______

Lunch money

$_______

Clothing

$ _______

Grooming

$_______

Gifts for holidays

$ _______

Medical/Dental (uninsured)

$ _______

Other: ______________

$ _______

D.INSURANCE Medical/Dental (if not listed on

lines 23 or 45)

$ _______

Child(ren)’s medical/dental

$ _______

Life

$ _______

Other:

 

 

$ _______

E. OTHER EXPENSES NOT LISTED ABOVE

Clothing

$ _______

Medical/Dental (uninsured)

$_______

Grooming

$ _______

Entertainment

$_______

Gifts

$_______

Religious organizations

$_______

Miscellaneous

$_______

Other: ______________

$ _______

____________________

$_______

____________________

$_______

____________________

$_______

____________________

$_______

____________________

$_______

F. PAYMENTS TO CREDITORS

 

CREDITOR:

MONTHLY

 

PAYMENT

____________________

$_______

____________________

$_______

____________________

$_______

____________________

$_______

____________________

$_______

____________________

$_______

____________________

$_______

____________________

$_______

____________________

$_______

____________________

$_______

____________________

$_______

Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(b), Family Law Financial Affidavit (Short Form) (01/15)

28. $_______ TOTAL MONTHLY EXPENSES (add ALL monthly amounts in A through F above)

SUMMARY

29.$_______ TOTAL PRESENT MONTHLY NET INCOME (from line 27 of SECTION I. INCOME)

30.$_______ TOTAL MONTHLY EXPENSES (from line 28 above)

31.$_______ SURPLUS (If line 29 is more than line 30, subtract line 30 from line 29. This is the amount of your surplus. Enter that amount here.)

32.($_______) (DEFICIT) (If line 30 is more than line 29, subtract line 29 from line 30. This is the amount of your deficit. Enter that amount here.)

SECTION III. ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

Use the nonmarital column only if this is a petition for dissolution of marriage and you believe an item is “nonmarital,” meaning it belongs to only one of you and should not be divided. You should indicate to whom you believe the item(s) or debt belongs. (Typically, you will only use this column if property/debt was owned/owed by one spouse before the marriage. See the “General Information for Self-Represented Litigants” found at the beginning of these forms and section 61.075(1), Florida Statutes, for definitions of “marital” and “nonmarital” assets and liabilities.)

A. ASSETS:

DESCRIPTION OF ITEM(S). List a description of each separate item

Current

Nonmarital

owned by you (and/or your spouse, if this is a petition for dissolution

(check correct

of marriage). LIST ONLY LAST 4 DIGITS OF ACCOUNT NUMBERS. Check

Fair

column)

the line next to any asset(s) which you are requesting the judge

Market

 

 

award to you.

Value

 

 

 

husband

wife

 

 

 

 

Cash (on hand)

$

 

 

 

Cash (in banks or credit unions)

 

 

 

 

Stocks, Bonds, Notes

 

 

 

 

Real estate: (Home)

 

 

 

 

(Other)

 

 

 

 

Automobiles

 

 

 

 

Other personal property

 

 

 

 

Retirement plans (Profit Sharing, Pension, IRA, 401(k)s, etc.)

 

 

 

 

Other

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

____Check here if additional pages are attached.

 

 

 

Total Assets (add next column)

$

 

 

Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(b), Family Law Financial Affidavit (Short Form) (01/15)

B. LIABILITIES:

DESCRIPTION OF ITEM(S). List a description of each separate debt

Current

Nonmarital

(check correct

owed by you (and/or your spouse, if this is a petition for dissolution

Amount

column)

of marriage). LIST ONLY LAST 4 DIGITS OF ACCOUNT NUMBERS. Check

Owed

the line next to any debt(s) for which you believe you should be

 

 

 

responsible.

 

husband

wife

 

Mortgages on real estate: First mortgage on home

$

 

 

 

Second mortgage on home

 

 

 

 

Other mortgages

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Auto loans

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Charge/credit card accounts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

____Check here if additional pages are attached.

 

 

 

Total Debts (add next column)

$

 

 

C. CONTINGENT ASSETS AND LIABILITIES:

INSTRUCTIONS: If you have any POSSIBLE assets (income potential, accrued vacation or sick leave, bonus, inheritance, etc.) or POSSIBLE liabilities (possible lawsuits, future unpaid taxes, contingent tax liabilities, debts assumed by another), you must list them here.

 

 

Contingent Assets

 

Possible

 

Nonmarital

 

 

 

 

 

(check correct

 

Check the line next to any contingent asset(s) which you are requesting the

 

Value

 

column)

 

 

 

 

judge award to you.

 

 

 

husband

wife

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Contingent Assets

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Contingent Liabilities

 

 

 

Nonmarital

 

 

 

 

Possible

 

(check correct

 

Check the line next to any contingent debt(s) for which you believe you

 

Amount

 

column)

 

should be responsible.

 

Owed

 

husband

wife

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Contingent Liabilities

$

 

 

 

Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(b), Family Law Financial Affidavit (Short Form) (01/15)

SECTION IV. CHILD SUPPORT GUIDELINES WORKSHEET

(Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(e), Child Support Guidelines Worksheet, MUST be filed with the court at or prior to a hearing to establish or modify child support. This requirement cannot be waived by the parties.)

[Check one only]

____ A Child Support Guidelines Worksheet IS or WILL BE filed in this case. This case involves the

establishment or modification of child support.

____ A Child Support Guidelines Worksheet IS NOT being filed in this case. The establishment or

modification of child support is not an issue in this case.

I certify that a copy of this document was [check all used]: ( ) e-mailed ( ) mailed ( ) faxed

( ) hand delivered to the person(s) listed below on {date} ________________________________.

Other party or his/her attorney:

Name: _____________________________

Address: ____________________________

City, State, Zip: _______________________

Fax Number: _________________________

E-mail Address(es): _____________________

I understand that I am swearing or affirming under oath to the truthfulness of the claims made in this affidavit and that the punishment for knowingly making a false statement includes fines and/or imprisonment.

Dated:

Signature of Party

Printed Name: ________________________________

Address: ___________________________________

City, State, Zip: ______________________________

Fax Number: ________________________________

E-mail Address(es): ____________________________

STATE OF FLORIDA

COUNTY OF

Sworn to or affirmed and signed before me on

 

 

by

 

.

 

 

 

________________________________

 

 

 

 

 

NOTARY PUBLIC or DEPUTY CLERK

 

 

 

 

________________________________

 

 

 

 

 

[Print, type, or stamp commissioned

 

 

 

 

 

name of notary or deputy clerk.]

 

____ Personally known

 

 

 

 

____ Produced identification

 

 

 

 

Type of identification produced

 

 

 

 

 

Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(b), Family Law Financial Affidavit (Short Form) (01/15)

IF A NONLAWYER HELPED YOU FILL OUT THIS FORM, HE/SHE MUST FILL IN THE BLANKS BELOW:

[fill in all blanks] This form was prepared for the: {choose only one} (

) Petitioner ( ) Respondent

This form was completed with the assistance of:

 

 

{name of individual}

 

 

,

{name of business} ___________________________________________________________________,

 

{address}

________________________________,

{city}

 

________,{state} ________ {telephone number}

.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(b), Family Law Financial Affidavit (Short Form) (01/15)

File Attributes

Fact Name Fact Detail
Purpose The Florida Financial Affidavit Short Form 12.902(b) is designed for individuals involved in family law cases with annual gross incomes of $50,000 or less. It provides a comprehensive outline of their financial status.
Requirement This form is a mandatory disclosure for divorce, child support, and other family law cases, ensuring both parties have a clear understanding of each other's financial situation.
Governing Laws It is governed by the Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, ensuring consistent and fair financial disclosure across family law cases within the state.
Components The affidavit includes sections on income, expenses, assets, and liabilities, offering a detailed picture of an individual's financial health.
Significance Accuracy in completing the form is crucial, as it affects settlements, child support calculations, and alimony, influencing the financial outcomes of family law proceedings.

Guidelines on How to Fill Out Florida Financial Affidavit Short 12.902(b)

When you're in the midst of legal proceedings in Florida, particularly those involving family law such as divorce or child support, you may be required to complete a Financial Affidavery Short Form 12.902(b). This document plays a crucial role in providing the court with a clear picture of your financial situation. It requires detailed information about your income, expenses, assets, and liabilities. Here's a helpful guide that breaks down the steps you need to follow to fill out this form accurately. Remember, completeness and accuracy are key, as this information will directly influence the court's decisions regarding financial obligations.

  1. Start by downloading the latest version of Form 12.902(b) from the Florida Courts website to ensure you have the most current form.
  2. Enter your personal information at the top of the form, including your full legal name, address, and the case number if you have it.
  3. Carefully read the instructions provided within the form to familiarize yourself with what information is required and how it should be presented.
  4. Section I: Monthly Income - List all sources of income you receive on a monthly basis. This includes wages, salaries, bonuses, commissions, allowances, overtime, tips, and income from self-employment. Do not forget to include other sources like social security benefits, pensions, disability income, child support or alimony received from previous marriages, and any other income streams. Be sure to provide gross income figures before any deductions.
  5. Section II: Average Monthly Expenses - Document all of your monthly expenses. This section includes rent or mortgage, utility bills, groceries, insurance premiums, transportation costs, child care expenses, and any other regular monthly expenses. Be as accurate and comprehensive as possible.
  6. Section III: Assets and Liabilities - List all your assets, including bank accounts (checking and savings), real estate properties, automobiles, retirement accounts, and personal property of value. Next, disclose all liabilities such as loans, credit card debt, mortgages, and other financial obligations.
  7. Make sure to sign and date the form at the bottom. Your signature attests to the truthfulness and accuracy of the information provided. Falsifying information on this document can have serious legal consequences.
  8. If possible, have your affidavit notarized. While not always required, having your document notarized adds a level of verification to the information and may be beneficial depending on your case.

After completing the Florida Financial Affidavit Short Form 12.902(b), you'll need to submit it to the court handling your case. Make sure to keep a copy for your records. This document will be used along with other evidence and testimonies to make decisions regarding alimony, child support, the division of assets, and other financial matters in your case. Being thorough and honest in your affidavit is not only a legal requirement but also a step towards ensuring a fair outcome for all parties involved.

Discover More on Florida Financial Affidavit Short 12.902(b)

What is the Florida Financial Affididy Short 12.902(b) form?

The Florida Financial Affidavit Short Form 12.902(b) is a legal document used in family law proceedings, such as divorces or child support cases, where parties are required to disclose their financial status. It provides a comprehensive summary of an individual's income, expenses, assets, and liabilities, but is designed for individuals with a gross annual income of $50,000 or less.

Who needs to fill out the Florida Financial Affidavit Short Form 12.902(b)?

This form must be completed by parties involved in family law disputes where financial disclosure is required, and their gross annual income is below or equal to $50,000. It's a crucial step in ensuring fair financial settlements and support arrangements are made.

What information do I need to provide in this form?

You will need to accurately provide details about your income, including salary, bonuses, commissions, and any other sources. Additionally, you must disclose your monthly expenses, such as living costs, debts, and any other recurring payments. Information about your assets, including bank accounts, real estate, and personal property, alongside any liabilities or debts, must also be included.

How often do I need to update the Financial Affidavit Short Form 12.902(b)?

The Financial Affidavit should be updated and refiled if there are significant changes to your financial situation, or as directed by a court order. Regular updates ensure that all financial disclosures remain accurate and up-to-date throughout the legal process.

Where can I find the Florida Financial Affidavit Short Form 12.902(b)?

This form is available for download on the Florida State Courts' official website. It can also be obtained from the clerk of the court in your local courthouse. It is important to use the most current form to ensure compliance with Florida law.

Is there a filing fee for submitting the Florida Financial Affidavit Short Form 12.902(b)?

Typically, there is no specific filing fee solely for submitting the Financial Affidavit. However, it is usually filed as part of a larger case, such as a divorce or child support case, which may require a filing fee. You should check with your local court to understand all applicable fees.

What are the consequences of not accurately filling out the Florida Financial Affidavit Short Form 12.902(b)?

Failing to provide accurate and truthful information in the Financial Affidavit can lead to serious consequences, including penalties for perjury, sanctions from the court, or unfavorable legal decisions. It is crucial to be thorough and honest in detailing your financial situation to ensure a fair outcome in your case.

Common mistakes

Filling out the Florida Financial Affidavit Short Form 12.902(b) can be a daunting task, especially during the emotionally charged process of family law proceedings. It's a crucial step in ensuring fair financial decisions, yet it's easy to make mistakes. Here’s a closer look at some common pitfalls to avoid:

  1. Not Reading Instructions Carefully: Many individuals start filling out the form without thoroughly reading the instructions, leading to misunderstandings about what information is required.

  2. Omitting Information: It's crucial to include all required financial details. Missing information can delay the process and impact the outcome of the case.

  3. Underestimating Expenses: Accurately reporting monthly expenses ensures a fair evaluation of financial needs. Underestimation can result in inadequate financial support.

  4. Overestimating Expenses: Conversely, overestimating can create an unrealistic picture of financial needs, affecting credibility and the final agreements.

  5. Incorrect Income Reporting: It's essential to accurately report all income sources. Both underreporting and overreporting can have legal consequences and affect financial outcomes.

  6. Not Updating the Form: Financial situations can change. Failing to submit updated information can lead to decisions based on outdated data.

  7. Failure to Provide Documentation: The affidavit requires supporting documentation for income, expenses, assets, and liabilities. Lack of documentation can result in delays and skepticism about the provided information.

  8. Mathematical Errors: Simple calculation mistakes can significantly impact the perceived financial situation. It's beneficial to double-check all numbers.

  9. Signed Without Notarization: The Florida Financial Affidavit must be signed in the presence of a Notary Public or deputy clerk. Signing without notarization can invalidate the form.

  10. Ignoring Deadlines: Adhering to submission deadlines is critical. Late submissions can delay proceedings and negatively affect the case.

In summary, when completing the Florida Financial Affidavit Short Form 12.902(b), it's vital to approach the task with diligence and attention to detail. Ensuring accuracy, completeness, and timeliness in submitting this affidavit can significantly impact the fairness and efficiency of financial resolutions in family law matters.

Documents used along the form

When navigating through the complexities of legal procedures in Florida, particularly those related to family law matters such as divorce or child support, several key forms and documents often accompany the Florida Financial Affididavit Short Form 12.902(b). Completing and understanding these various forms can significantly ease the process, ensuring all financial aspects are thoroughly and accurately documented.

  • Marital Settlement Agreement for Dissolution of Marriage with No Dependent or Minor Child(ren) 12.902(f)(2): This document is vital for couples without children who are seeking a divorce. It outlines the agreed-upon terms for dividing assets and liabilities.
  • Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) Affidavit 12.902(d): Required in cases involving child custody, this affidavit provides the court with the necessary information to enforce or modify custody or visitation orders across state lines.
  • Child Support Guidelines Worksheet 12.902(e): Relevant in child support and custody cases, this worksheet helps calculate the appropriate amount of child support, as per Florida's guidelines, based on parents' income, healthcare, and childcare costs.
  • Notice of Social Security Number 12.902(j): Each party in a family law case must disclose their social security number to the court, aiding in the identification of parties and facilitating the enforcement of orders.
  • Family Law Financial Affidavit (Long Form) 12.902(c): For individuals with a higher annual income, this comprehensive affidavit provides a detailed disclosure of financial status, necessary in support and division of property cases.
  • Front of theard Marital Settlement Agreement for Dissolution of Marriage with Dependent or Minor Child(ren) 12.902(f)(1): Essential for divorcing couples with children, this document addresses issues beyond asset division, including parenting plans, child support, and other matters related to the welfare of the children.
  • Certificate of Compliance with Mandatory Disclosure 12.932: This form certifies that a party has complied with the mandatory disclosure rule, which requires the exchange of financial information and documents in family law cases.

Each of these documents plays a crucial role in the legal processes surrounding family law issues in Florida. By providing a comprehensive picture of each party's financial situation, they assist courts in making informed decisions regarding asset division, spousaid upport, and child-related matters. Familiarity with these forms and their purposes not only helps parties navigate their current circumstances but also lays the groundwork for a clearer and more equitable resolution.

Similar forms

The Florida Financial Affidavit Long Form 12.902(c) is quite similar to the Florida Financial Affidavit Short Form 12.902(b), given that both are utilized in the state's family law cases. The Long Form, however, is required when an individual's annual gross income exceeds $50,000. It provides a more detailed account of one's financial status, including assets, liabilities, income, and expenses, compared to the Short Form, which is used for those with an annual gross income of $50,000 or less. Both forms serve to give the court a comprehensive view of the financial situations of the parties involved.

Another related document is the Uniform Financial Affidavit, used in various jurisdictions across the United States to report one's financial standing in family law matters. Like the Florida Financial Affidavit Short Form 12.902(b), it is designed to ensure fair and equitable financial arrangements are made. The specifics of the form can vary by state, but the overarching aim is to provide an accurate financial picture to assist with determinations on alimony, child support, and division of assets. The core similarity lies in their purpose to facilitate transparency in financial disclosures during legal proceedings.

The Child Support Guidelines Worksheet, another document often used in family law, correlates directly with the information provided in the Florida Financial Affidavit Short Form 12.902(b). This worksheet is utilized to calculate child support obligations based on the parents' income, healthcare, and childcare costs. The financial affidavit provides the necessary financial details to fill out this worksheet accurately, ensuring that child support payments are fair and in line with the state's guidelines.

The Statement of Net Worth is a document required in divorce proceedings in some states, akin to the Florida Financial Affidavit Short Form 12.902(b). It lists all assets, liabilities, income, and expenses, offering a snapshot of an individual's financial health. This document helps in negotiations and court decisions regarding alimony, child support, and property division. Both focus on delivering a detailed account of financial standings to aid the equitable resolution of financial disputes in family law cases.

The Property Declaration form, common in divorce cases, also has similarities to the Florida Financial Affidavit Short Form 12.902(b). This form specifically focuses on detailing each party's property - including real estate, personal property, and financial accounts - to be considered in the division of property. It complements financial affidavits by providing a thorough inventory of assets, in support of the financial disclosure required in separation and divorce proceedings.

Bank Loan Applications often require detailed financial information similar to what is provided in the Florida Financial Affidavit Short Form 12.902(b). Applicants must disclose their income, expenses, assets, and liabilities to demonstrate their ability to repay the loan. This parallel existence of comprehensive financial disclosure supports decision-making, in this case by lenders to assess the creditworthiness of an applicant.

Lastly, Personal Financial Statements, used for a variety of personal and business purposes, share objectives with the Florida Financial Affidavit Short Form 12.902(b). Individuals use these statements to summarize their financial health, detailing assets, liabilities, income, and expenses, much like the affidavit. These statements are essential for financial planning, obtaining credit, or investment purposes, providing an overview that aids in understanding an individual or family's financial position.

Dos and Don'ts

Filling out legal forms can feel like navigating a complex maze for those not accustomed to it. When it comes to the Florida Financial Affidavit Short Form 12.902(b), accuracy and attention to detail are critical. This affidavit is a sworn statement of your financial status, which the court uses to make decisions about alimony, child support, and the division of property. To help you through the process, here are essential do’s and don’ts to bear in mind.

Do:
  • Read the instructions carefully before starting. Understanding what is required can save you from making common mistakes.
  • Gather all necessary financial documents beforehand. This includes tax returns, bank statements, pay stubs, and any documentation related to debts and assets. Having everything at hand streamlines the process.
  • Be honest and accurate in all the information you provide. Inaccuracies, whether intentional or accidental, can lead to legal complications.
  • Use black ink if filling out the form by hand. This ensures that the document is legible and photocopies well.
  • Provide detailed information regarding your income, expenses, assets, and liabilities. Specificity is key for the court to make informed decisions.
Don't:
  • Estimate or guess figures. Use exact numbers wherever possible, as estimates can lead to a misleading portrayal of your financial situation.
  • Leave sections blank. If a section does not apply to you, write "N/A" (not applicable) to indicate that you have seen and considered it, but it's not relevant to your situation.
  • Forget to sign and date the form. An unsigned affidavit is not valid and will not be accepted by the court.
  • Ignore the requirement to notarize the form, if applicable. Check the instructions to see if your affidavit needs to be notarized before submission.

Misconceptions

When dealing with Florida's legal system, particularly in cases involving divorce or child support, you may come across the Florida Financial Affidavit Short 12.902(b). While this form plays a crucial role in proceedings, there are several common misconceptions about it. It's essential to clear up these misunderstandings to ensure that individuals can navigate their legal obligations successfully.

  • It's Optional: Some people believe that submitting the Florida Financial Affidavit Short 12.902(b) form is optional, especially in cases that seem straightforward or when both parties agree on financial matters. However, this form is mandatory in family law cases where financial issues are at stake, irrespective of the case's perceived complexity or agreement between parties.

  • Only for High-income Individuals: Another misconception is that the form is designed solely for individuals with a high income. In reality, the "Short Form" is for those with a gross annual income of $50,000 or less. It ensures that all relevant financial information is disclosed, regardless of the amount of income.

  • Complexity Requires a Lawyer: While legal advice can be beneficial, the belief that only a lawyer can accurately complete the Florida Financial Affidavit Short 12.902(b) form is not true. Individuals can fill it out themselves by carefully following the instructions and providing accurate financial information. However, consulting a lawyer can help avoid mistakes or omissions.

  • Used Solely in Divorce Proceedings: While it's commonly associated with divorce, the Florida Financial Affidavit Short 12.902(b) is not exclusive to it. This form is also used in other family law cases, such as child support modifications, where financial information is crucial for determining obligations.

  • Information Provided Is Not Verified: Some people might think that the information provided on the Florida Financial Affidit Short 12.902(b) does not undergo verification. Contrary to this belief, parties may be required to produce documentation that supports the data entered on the form. Failure to provide accurate information can lead to penalties for perjury.

Key takeaways

The Florida Financial Affidavit Short Form 12.902(b) is a document used in family court situations. When marriage or relationships go through significant changes, such as divorce or child support adjustments, this form plays a critical role. Understanding how to fill out and use this form properly can greatly impact the process's smoothness and outcome. Here are key takeaways to consider:

  • Filling out the form accurately is crucial. This form requires you to list all your sources of income, monthly expenses, assets, and liabilities. It's essential to be thorough and honest when completing these sections because they provide a clear picture of your financial situation. Incorrect or incomplete information can lead to delays or unfavorable decisions.
  • Know when to file. The Short Form 12.902(b) is typically used when an individual's gross income is less than $50,000 per year. If your income exceeds this amount, you'll need to complete the Long Form Financial Affidavit. Determining which form applies to you is an important first step.
  • Understand the importance of disclosure. This affidavit serves as a foundational document in family court proceedings, offering an overview of your financial landscape to the court and other parties involved. It aids in fair decision-making regarding alimony, child support, and the division of assets and liabilities. Failure to disclose all relevant information can lead to legal penalties.
  • Seek professional guidance if needed. While the form may seem straightforward, navigating the nuances of financial information and understanding their implications in a legal context can be challenging. Consulting with a legal advisor can ensure the form is filled out correctly and that all financial information is presented accurately and favorably.

Remember, the Florida Financial Affidavit Short Form 12.902(b) is not just a formality; it's a legally binding document that can significantly influence the outcomes of family court proceedings. Paying careful attention to detail and being transparent in your disclosures can help ensure a fair and efficient resolution of your case.

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