Waterfront Income Doesn’t Fit a Simple Formula
If you work for the ILWU, you already know your income may fluctuate throughout the year. Dispatch opportunities, overtime, holidays, vacations, weather, injuries, and the amount of available work can all affect what your paycheck looks like.
That’s why one of the biggest mistakes I see is someone trying to estimate—or guess—their income when child support becomes an issue.
One Paycheck Rarely Tells the Whole Story
I’ve had clients bring in one unusually high paycheck because they think that’s what the court will focus on. Others bring in a slow month hoping it reflects their normal earnings.
Neither approach usually tells the complete story.
The goal is to present an accurate picture of your income over time, supported by reliable documentation rather than assumptions.
Good Records Matter
If you’re an ILWU member, keep copies of payroll records, W-2s, tax returns, dispatch history, vacation pay information, benefit information, and any other documents that accurately reflect your earnings.
The more organized your records are, the easier it is for your attorney to understand your financial circumstances and give you meaningful advice.
Don’t Guess—Verify
Child support decisions can have long-term financial consequences. Guessing at your income, relying on memory, or using rough averages can create unnecessary problems.
If your income has changed because of an injury, reduced dispatch opportunities, retirement, or another significant event, make sure your attorney has documentation that explains what happened and when it happened.
Common Mistakes I See
- Using one paycheck to represent an entire year.
- Forgetting to include or explain overtime and vacation pay.
- Waiting until the last minute to gather income records.
- Assuming everyone understands how ILWU compensation works.
- Relying on internet advice instead of your own financial records.
Kelley’s Take
One thing I’ve learned from representing longshore workers is that waterfront income is unique. It deserves to be understood—not oversimplified.
The better your records, the better your attorney can explain your financial picture and develop a strategy based on facts instead of guesses.
Talk to Finan Family Law
Finan Family Law proudly represents ILWU members and longshore workers throughout Torrance, the South Bay, the Port of Los Angeles, and Los Angeles County. If your divorce or child support case involves fluctuating waterfront income, we’re here to provide practical, straightforward, no-BS guidance.