Child Support Calculator
Estimate monthly child support payments
Parent Information
Parent 1 (Custodial Parent)
Percentage of overnights per year
Parent 2 (Non-Custodial Parent)
Additional Expenses (Monthly)
Deductions (Optional)
Existing child support orders
Support Estimate
Enter parent information and click "Calculate"
Get an estimated monthly support amount
When to Use Child Support Calculator
Divorce Planning
Estimate child support obligations during divorce proceedings and settlement negotiations
Custody Agreements
Understand how different custody arrangements affect support amounts
Modification Requests
Estimate new support amounts when circumstances change significantly
Financial Planning
Budget for expected child support payments or income
Mediation Prep
Prepare for mediation sessions with realistic support expectations
Attorney Consultation
Come prepared to legal consultations with preliminary calculations
Frequently Asked Questions
How is child support calculated?
Most states use the Income Shares Model, which combines both parents' incomes to determine total support obligation based on state guidelines. The non-custodial parent's share is calculated proportionally. Some states use a Percentage of Income model based solely on the paying parent's income.
What factors affect child support amounts?
Key factors include: both parents' gross income, number of children, custody/parenting time arrangement, health insurance costs, childcare expenses, special needs of children, and existing support obligations. Some states also consider standard of living during marriage.
How does custody arrangement affect child support?
More parenting time typically reduces support obligations. In 50/50 custody arrangements, the higher-earning parent usually pays the difference. Many states have specific adjustments for shared custody (typically over 25-30% parenting time).
What income is used for child support calculations?
Gross income from all sources is typically used, including: wages, salaries, bonuses, commissions, self-employment income, rental income, dividends, pensions, and unemployment benefits. Some states allow deductions for taxes, mandatory retirement, and existing support orders.
Can child support be modified?
Yes, child support can be modified when there's a substantial change in circumstances, such as: significant income change (typically 15-20%), job loss, change in custody arrangement, child's needs change, or remarriage affecting finances. You must petition the court for modification.
How long does child support last?
Child support typically continues until the child turns 18, or 19-21 if still in high school or college (varies by state). Support may end earlier if the child becomes emancipated, joins the military, or gets married. Some states extend support for disabled children indefinitely.
Are childcare and medical expenses included in child support?
Basic child support covers ordinary expenses. Work-related childcare and health insurance premiums are typically added to the base support amount and divided proportionally between parents. Extraordinary medical expenses and extracurricular activities may be handled separately.
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