Child Support by State — 2026 Calculator Guide
Child support in the United States is calculated using one of three models: Income Shares (used by 41 states — considers both parents' combined income), Percentage of Income (used by 6 states including Alaska, Mississippi, and Wisconsin — based on the non-custodial parent's income only), and the Melson Formula (used by Delaware, Hawaii, and Montana — a modified income shares model with self-support allowances). The average child support payment in the US is approximately $5,760 per year ($480/month).
Three Models for Calculating Child Support
Every state in the U.S. requires courts to follow child support guidelines, but the underlying formula differs depending on which of three models the state has adopted. The Income Sharesmodel, used by 41 states, estimates how much both parents would have spent on the child if the household were intact, then divides that amount based on each parent's proportional income. The Percentage of Incomemodel, used by 6 states (including Alaska, Illinois, Texas, and Wisconsin), applies a flat or graduated percentage to the non-custodial parent's income only. The Melson Formula, used by Delaware, Hawaii, and Montana, builds on the Income Shares approach but first subtracts a self-support reserve for each parent to ensure they can meet their own basic living expenses before support is calculated.
How Custody Time Affects Child Support
In most Income Shares states, the amount of parenting time the non-custodial parent has directly reduces their child support obligation. Many states use an overnight threshold — typically 90 to 110 overnights per year (roughly 25–30% of the time) — to trigger a shared-custody adjustment. Once that threshold is crossed, the formula accounts for the fact that the non-custodial parent is already covering some of the child's day-to-day expenses during their parenting time. Percentage of Income states generally do not build in a time-share adjustment, though some allow judges to deviate from guidelines when custody is close to equal.
Calculators Provide Estimates — Courts Make Final Determinations
Child support calculators — including the free tools linked for each state below — apply official guideline formulas to produce an estimated support amount. However, courts retain discretion to deviate from guidelines based on factors like extraordinary medical expenses, private school tuition, travel costs for visitation, a child's special needs, or a parent's voluntary underemployment. The calculated amount should be treated as a starting point, not a assure. For binding child support orders, you will need either a court order or an agreement approved by a judge.
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Estimate child support payments→Important: This tool provides educational estimates only — not legal advice. Made For Law is not a law firm and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, county, or local government agency or court system. Calculator results are based on statutory formulas and publicly available fee schedules — not AI. Supporting content is AI-assisted and editorially reviewed. Results may not reflect recent legislative changes or your specific circumstances. Do not rely solely on these estimates — always verify with official sources and consult a licensed attorney before making legal or financial decisions. Full disclaimer
50-State Comparison
| State | Calculation Model | Guidelines Summary | Statute |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Income Shares | Income Shares model under Ala. R. Jud. Admin. Rule 32 using both parents' combined gross income. The Alabama Schedule of Basic Child Support Obligations covers combined monthly gross income up to $20,000; above that threshold, the court exercises discretion. Allowable deductions include pre-existing child support obligations, health insurance premiums, and work-related child care. Parenting time adjustments apply when the non-custodial parent exercises 35%+ of overnight custody annually. Minimum monthly support order: $50. Administered by the Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR) Child Support Enforcement Division. Statute: Ala. R. Jud. Admin. Rule 32; Ala. Code § 30-3-62. | Ala. R. Jud. Admin. Rule 32 |
| Alaska | Percentage of Income | Percentage of obligor's adjusted net monthly income under Alaska Civil Rule 90.3: 20% for one child, 27% for two, 33% for three, 37% for four or more. Shared custody adjustment available when child spends 30%+ overnights with the obligor — the offset formula in Rule 90.3(b) significantly reduces the transfer payment. Administered by the Alaska Child Support Services Division (CSSD) under the Alaska Department of Revenue. Low-income obligors may qualify for the subsistence credit or minimum support order of $50/month per child. Statute: Alaska Civil Rule 90.3; Alaska Stat. § 25.27.060. | Alaska R. Civ. P. 90.3 |
| Arizona | Income Shares | Income Shares model using both parents' combined adjusted gross income under Arizona Supreme Court Rule 9(D) and the Arizona Child Support Guidelines Schedule of Basic Support Obligations. Combined income up to approximately $20,000/month is fully scheduled; above that threshold, the court has discretion. Parenting time credit reduces the obligation when the non-custodial parent has 25%+ parenting time. Administered by the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) Division of Child Support Services (DCSS). Statute: A.R.S. § 25-320 and the guidelines promulgated thereunder. | A.R.S. § 25-320; Arizona Child Support Guidelines |
| Arkansas | Percentage of Income | Percentage of non-custodial parent's net take-home pay under Arkansas Administrative Order No. 10 (revised 2020): 17% for one child, 23% for two, 27% for three, 31% for four, 34% for five or more. Net income is computed after deducting taxes, Social Security, Medicare, and pre-existing court-ordered support obligations. The schedule provides tables based on income range ($800–$10,000/month net) and number of children; above $10,000/month, the court has discretion. Shared custody adjustment reduces the obligation when the non-custodial parent has 141+ days/year of visitation. Minimum order: $50/month. Administered by the Arkansas Office of Child Support Enforcement (OCSE) within the Department of Finance and Administration. Statute: Ark. Admin. Order No. 10; Ark. Code Ann. § 9-14-234. | Ark. Admin. Order No. 10 |
| California | Income Shares | Income Shares model using a statewide algebraic formula under Cal. Fam. Code § 4055 that combines both parents' net disposable monthly income and the non-custodial parent's time-share percentage. The formula — CS = K[HN - (H%)(TN)] — produces an exact figure rather than a table lookup; courts may not deviate except in very limited circumstances. Net disposable income deducts federal and state taxes, FICA, mandatory union dues, and health insurance premiums. Add-ons (mandatory: child care, uninsured medical; discretionary: educational expenses, travel for visitation) are allocated proportionally to income. There is no statutory cap on combined income, but courts scrutinize orders where support exceeds the child's actual needs above $9,999/month combined. Administered by the California Department of Child Support Services (DCSS). Statute: Cal. Fam. Code §§ 4050–4076. | Cal. Fam. Code § 4055 |
| Colorado | Income Shares | Income Shares model under C.R.S. § 14-10-115 using both parents' combined adjusted gross income and the Colorado Schedule of Basic Support Obligations. The schedule covers combined monthly adjusted gross income up to $30,000; above that level, the court applies the guideline formula with discretion. Adjusted gross income subtracts federal and state income taxes, FICA, mandatory union dues, and pre-existing child support obligations. Parenting time adjustment: a pro-rata overnight credit applies when the non-custodial parent exercises 93+ overnight overnights per year. Child care and health insurance premiums are added to the basic obligation and split proportionally by income. Minimum support order: $50/month. Administered by the Colorado Child Support Services (CSS) at cdhs.colorado.gov. Statute: C.R.S. § 14-10-115 and the Colorado Child Support Guidelines worksheet adopted by Supreme Court. | C.R.S. § 14-10-115 |
| Connecticut | Income Shares | Income Shares model under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 46b-215a using both parents' combined net weekly income and the Connecticut Child Support and Arrearage Guidelines schedule (revised 2015, updated 2022). The schedule covers combined net weekly income up to $4,000/week ($208,000/year); above that, the court exercises discretion. Net weekly income deducts federal and state income taxes, FICA, Medicare, and mandatory union dues. A parenting-time credit applies when the non-custodial parent exercises more than the minimum access schedule — typically 15%+ of overnights. Child care costs and unreimbursed medical expenses exceeding $250/year per child are allocated proportionally. Low-income families with net weekly income below $75/person may qualify for a minimum order. Administered by the Connecticut Support Enforcement Services (SES) division of the Judicial Branch. Statute: Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 46b-215a through 46b-215b. | Conn. Gen. Stat. § 46b-215a |
| Delaware | Melson Formula | Melson Formula under Del. Code Ann. tit. 13, § 514: each parent's primary support allowance (self-support reserve) is deducted first; remaining income funds the child's primary support need. Delaware is one of only three states using the Melson Formula. The Delaware Child Support Formula (DCSF) calculator is maintained by the Division of Child Support Enforcement (DCSE) at dcse.delaware.gov. Low-income parents qualify for a minimum support order. Statute: Del. Fam. Ct. R. 510 and the Delaware Child Support Formula promulgated under Del. Code Ann. tit. 13, § 514. | Del. Fam. Ct. R. Civ. P. 52(c); Del. Code tit. 13, § 514 |
| District of Columbia | Income Shares | Income Shares model under D.C. Code § 16-916.01 using both parents' combined monthly gross income and the DC Child Support Guideline schedule. Combined income up to $15,000/month is fully scheduled; above that, the court may award additional support. Gross income includes wages, bonuses, self-employment income, and investment income. Deductions allowed for pre-existing child support orders and health insurance premiums. Parenting time adjustment: a proportional credit applies when the non-custodial parent exercises 35%+ of overnight custody. Child care and uninsured medical costs are allocated proportionally. Administered by the DC Office of the Attorney General Child Support Services Division (CSSD) at oag.dc.gov/page/child-support-services. Statute: D.C. Code § 16-916.01 and the Guidelines promulgated thereunder. | D.C. Code § 16-916.01 |
| Florida | Income Shares | Income Shares model under Fla. Stat. § 61.30 using both parents' combined net monthly income and the Florida Child Support Guidelines Schedule of Basic Support Obligations. The schedule covers combined monthly net income up to $10,000; above that cap, the court may add 5% of any excess for each additional child. Net income deducts federal and state income taxes, FICA, Medicare, mandatory union dues, and health insurance premiums. Parenting time adjustment: the guideline amount is reduced by 50% when the non-custodial parent exercises 20%+ of overnight overnights annually (73+ nights/year); a more complex shared parenting formula applies above 50% time. Child care costs and uninsured medical expenses are allocated proportionally to income. Minimum monthly support: $50. Administered by the Florida Department of Revenue (DOR) Child Support Program. Statute: Fla. Stat. § 61.30 and the schedule promulgated thereunder. | Fla. Stat. § 61.30 |
| Georgia | Income Shares | Income Shares model under O.C.G.A. § 19-6-15 using both parents' combined adjusted gross income (AGI) and the Georgia Basic Child Support Obligation (BCSO) table (revised 2023). The table covers combined monthly AGI up to $30,000; above that, the court applies a discretionary formula. Adjusted gross income deducts pre-existing child support obligations, alimony paid, and self-employment taxes but does NOT deduct income taxes (Georgia uses AGI, not net). Deviations are permitted for extraordinary educational expenses, high income, low income, or non-specific additional expenses. Parenting time deviations: when the non-custodial parent exercises 109+ days/year, a parenting time deviation is presumptively appropriate. Child care and uninsured health care costs are added as special expenses. Administered by the Georgia Division of Child Support Services (DCSS) within the Department of Human Services. Statute: O.C.G.A. § 19-6-15 and Georgia Child Support Commission rules. | O.C.G.A. § 19-6-15 |
| Hawaii | Melson Formula | Melson Formula under HRS § 576D-7: first subtracts a self-support reserve ($1,208/month for obligor as of 2024) from each parent's net monthly income; remaining income is allocated to the child's basic needs using the Hawaii Child Support Guidelines table. A standard-of-living allowance (SOLA) of 5% of remaining income is added for higher-income parents. Child care and medical insurance costs added on top. Administered by the Hawaii Child Support Enforcement Agency (CSEA). Statute: Haw. Rev. Stat. § 576D-7; Hawaii Family Court Rule 58. | Haw. Rev. Stat. § 576D-7; Hawaii Child Support Guidelines |
| Idaho | Income Shares | Income Shares model under Idaho Rule of Civil Procedure 6(c)(6) and the Idaho Child Support Guidelines using both parents' combined monthly gross income. The Idaho Child Support Table covers combined monthly gross income up to $15,000; above that, the court has discretion. Gross income includes wages, self-employment income, bonuses, commissions, and investment income; allowable deductions include pre-existing child support orders and health insurance premiums paid for the child. When the non-custodial parent has 25%+ parenting time (91+ nights/year), a parenting time adjustment reduces the obligation proportionally. Child care costs are allocated based on each parent's share of combined income. Minimum support order: $25/month. Administered by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare Child Support Services. Statute: Idaho R. Civ. P. 6(c)(6); Idaho Code § 32-706. | Idaho R. Civ. P. 6(c)(6); Idaho Child Support Guidelines |
| Illinois | Income Shares | Income Shares model under 750 ILCS 5/505 using both parents' combined monthly net income and the Illinois Schedule of Basic Support Obligations (updated 2019). The schedule covers combined monthly net income up to $30,000; above that, the court may award additional support in its discretion. Net income deducts mandatory withholding taxes, FICA, Medicare, health insurance premiums for the child, and pre-existing child support orders. The Illinois minimum support order is the greater of $40/month or 20% of the obligor's net income. Shared physical care adjustment: when each parent exercises at least 146 nights/year (40%), the schedule amount is split using an Illinois-specific formula under 750 ILCS 5/505(a)(3.8). Child care and medical expenses are allocated proportionally. Administered by the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) Child Support Services division. Statute: 750 ILCS 5/505; 89 Ill. Admin. Code Part 160. | 750 ILCS 5/505 |
| Indiana | Income Shares | Income Shares model using both parents' weekly adjusted gross income under the Indiana Child Support Rules and Guidelines (Rule 3). The Indiana Child Support Guidelines (ICSO) schedule uses weekly gross income of both parents combined up to approximately $2,800/week per parent. Credit for parenting time from the Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines — obligors with 52+ overnights/year receive a minimum 8% reduction; the full parenting time credit applies at the guidelines overnight schedule. Administered by the Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS). Statute: Ind. Code § 31-16-6-1; Indiana Child Support Rule 3 and the Child Support Guidelines Worksheet promulgated by the Indiana Supreme Court. | Ind. Code § 31-16-6; Indiana Child Support Rules and Guidelines |
| Iowa | Income Shares | Income Shares model under Iowa Ct. R. 9.4 and Iowa Code § 598.21B using both parents' combined net monthly income and the Iowa Schedule of Basic Support Obligations (revised 2023). The schedule covers combined monthly net income up to $28,000; above that, the court applies a discretionary formula. Net monthly income is calculated after deducting federal and state income taxes (at actual withholding), FICA, Medicare, mandatory union dues, and health insurance premiums. Physical care adjustment: when the non-custodial parent exercises 127+ nights/year (35%+), a proportional overnight credit reduces the transfer payment. Allowable additions: unreimbursed health care costs exceeding $250/year per child, and child care expenses are allocated proportionally to income. Minimum monthly order: $50 per month. Administered by the Iowa Child Support Recovery Unit (CSRU) within the Iowa Department of Human Services. Statute: Iowa Code § 598.21B; Iowa Ct. R. 9.4. | Iowa Ct. R. 9.4; Iowa Code § 598.21B |
| Kansas | Income Shares | Income Shares model under Kan. Stat. Ann. § 23-3001 and the Kansas Child Support Guidelines (revised 2020) using both parents' combined monthly domestic gross income. The Kansas Child Support Schedule covers combined monthly gross income up to $50,000; above that, the court uses discretion. 'Domestic gross income' includes wages, self-employment income, and most passive income, but excludes public assistance. Allowable deductions: pre-existing child support orders, child's health insurance premium, and extraordinary medical expenses. Parenting time adjustment: obligors with 35%+ of parenting time (127+ nights) receive a proportional reduction, with an additional 'adjustment multiplier' of 1.5 applied to the base reduction. Minimum monthly order: $50. Administered by the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) Child Support Services. Statute: Kan. Stat. Ann. § 23-3001; Kansas Supreme Court Rule 139. | Kan. Stat. Ann. § 23-3001; Kansas Child Support Guidelines |
| Kentucky | Income Shares | Income Shares model under KRS § 403.212 using both parents' combined monthly adjusted gross income and the Kentucky Child Support Guidelines Table (revised 2022). The table covers combined monthly adjusted gross income up to $15,000; above that, the court awards support in its discretion. Adjusted gross income deducts pre-existing child support orders, alimony paid to the other parent, and mandatory union dues. Parenting time adjustment: a credit applies when the non-custodial parent exercises 40%+ of overnight time. Child care and health insurance costs are added proportionally. Minimum support order: $60/month. Administered by the Kentucky Child Support Division within the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) at chfs.ky.gov/childsupport. Statute: KRS §§ 403.211–403.213. | Ky. Rev. Stat. § 403.212 |
| Louisiana | Income Shares | Income Shares model under La. R.S. § 9:315 et seq. using both parents' combined monthly adjusted gross income and the Louisiana Child Support Schedule. The schedule covers combined monthly adjusted gross income up to $40,000; above that, the court may award additional support. Adjusted gross income deducts federal and state income taxes (at actual withholding), FICA, Medicare, mandatory union dues, and pre-existing child support orders. Parenting time adjustment: a credit applies when the non-custodial parent exercises more than the 'standard' visitation schedule. Child care and extraordinary medical expenses are allocated proportionally. Louisiana uses a 3-year statute of limitations on back child support recovery. Administered by the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) Child Support Enforcement program at dcfs.louisiana.gov. Statute: La. R.S. §§ 9:315–9:315.17. | La. Rev. Stat. § 9:315 |
| Maine | Income Shares | Income Shares model under Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 19-A, § 2006 using both parents' combined gross monthly income and the Maine Child Support Table. The table covers combined monthly gross income up to $20,000; above that, the court exercises discretion. Gross income includes wages, bonuses, self-employment income, and investment income; deductions allowed for pre-existing child support orders and health insurance premiums. Parenting time adjustment: the non-custodial parent receives a credit when exercising more than the 'standard' parenting schedule — Maine uses a continuous variable reduction formula rather than a threshold-based system, so any additional overnight time proportionally reduces the obligation. Child care costs are added as a direct expense and split proportionally. Minimum monthly order: $50. Administered by the Maine Division of Support Enforcement and Recovery (DSER) within the Department of Health and Human Services. Statute: Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 19-A, §§ 2006–2007. | Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 19-A, § 2006 |
| Maryland | Income Shares | Income Shares model under Md. Code, Fam. Law § 12-204 using both parents' combined monthly actual income and the Maryland Child Support Guidelines Schedule (revised 2022). The schedule covers combined monthly income up to $15,000; above that cap, the court may award additional support proportional to need. 'Actual income' is gross income less pre-existing child support orders, alimony paid, and child support paid for other children under a court order. Maryland does NOT deduct income taxes from gross income — it uses a gross-income model. Parenting time adjustment: an overnight credit applies when the non-custodial parent exercises 128+ nights/year; the full shared physical custody formula applies above 183+ nights. Child care and extraordinary medical costs are split proportionally. Administered by the Maryland Child Support Administration (CSA) within DHR at dhs.maryland.gov/child-support-services. Statute: Md. Code, Fam. Law §§ 12-201–12-204. | Md. Code, Fam. Law § 12-204 |
| Massachusetts | Income Shares | Income Shares model using both parents' gross weekly income under the Massachusetts Child Support Guidelines (2023 revision) — combined gross income up to $400,000/month is scheduled; child care costs, health insurance premiums, and parenting time offset deducted. Guideline worksheet available at mass.gov/child-support. Administered by the DOR Child Support Enforcement division (CSE). Statute: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 208, § 28 and ch. 119A, § 13. | Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 208, § 28; Massachusetts Child Support Guidelines |
| Michigan | Income Shares | Income Shares model under MCL § 552.605 and the Michigan Child Support Formula (MCSF) Manual (2021 edition) using both parents' combined monthly net income. Net income deducts federal and state income taxes, FICA, Medicare, mandatory union dues, and pre-existing support orders. The MCSF uses a two-tier table: a Basic Support Table for combined monthly net income up to $11,373 (updated annually), and a formula for higher-income cases. Parenting time offset: Michigan's MCSF applies a 'parenting time multiplier' reduction for each overnight of parenting time above the threshold — not a simple percentage credit. Child care and extraordinary medical costs added proportionally. Administered by the Michigan Office of Child Support (OCS) within DHHS at michigan.gov/mdhhs/adult-child-services/child-support. Statute: MCL §§ 552.605–552.606; MCSF Manual promulgated by the State Court Administrative Office. | Mich. Comp. Laws § 552.605; Michigan Child Support Formula |
| Minnesota | Income Shares | Income Shares model under Minn. Stat. § 518A.35 using both parents' combined parental income for determining child support (PICS) and the Minnesota Child Support Guidelines Worksheet. PICS is gross income minus pre-existing child support orders, alimony paid, and non-joint child support paid under a court order. Combined PICS up to $20,000/month is scheduled; above that, the court has discretion. Parenting time expense adjustment: Minnesota uses a unique 'parenting expense adjustment' — a percentage multiplier of the basic support obligation based on each parent's percent of parenting time. The adjustment increases incrementally as parenting time increases, starting at 10% parenting time. Child care and medical costs are split proportionally. Administered by the Minnesota Child Support Division within the Department of Human Services at mn.gov/dhs/child-support. Statute: Minn. Stat. §§ 518A.26–518A.86. | Minn. Stat. § 518A.35 |
| Mississippi | Percentage of Income | Percentage of non-custodial parent's adjusted gross income under Miss. Code Ann. § 43-19-101: 14% for one child, 20% for two, 22% for three, 24% for four, 26% for five or more. Adjusted gross income deducts pre-existing child support orders for other children but does NOT deduct taxes — Mississippi uses a gross income model. No statutory income cap — the percentage applies to the full adjusted gross income. This percentage-of-income model (not income shares) means the non-custodial parent's income alone determines the award; the custodial parent's income is not factored in. Low-income obligors may qualify for a minimum support order. Administered by the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) Division of Child Support at mdhs.ms.gov/economic-assistance/child-support. Statute: Miss. Code Ann. § 43-19-101. | Miss. Code Ann. § 43-19-101 |
| Missouri | Income Shares | Income Shares model under Mo. Rev. Stat. § 452.340 and Missouri Form 14 using both parents' combined monthly adjusted gross income and the Form 14 Schedule of Basic Child Support Obligations. The schedule covers combined monthly adjusted gross income up to $30,000; above that, the court may deviate. Adjusted gross income deducts pre-existing court-ordered child support and maintenance obligations. Missouri's Form 14 worksheet is distinctive: it requires listing each parent's income, the presumed child support amount, and then any deviations requested with written findings. Parenting time credit: a proportional reduction applies when the non-custodial parent has 35%+ of overnight parenting time annually. Child care and extraordinary medical expenses added proportionally. Administered by the Missouri Department of Social Services Family Support Division (FSD) at dss.mo.gov/cse. Statute: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 452.340; Mo. Sup. Ct. R. 88.01 (Form 14). | Mo. Rev. Stat. § 452.340; Missouri Form 14 |
| Montana | Melson Formula | Melson Formula under Mont. Admin. R. 37.62.101 et seq.: Montana is one of only three states using this approach. Step 1: each parent's primary support allowance (self-support reserve, approximately $1,000/month) is deducted from gross income. Step 2: remaining income funds the child's basic support needs per the Montana Child Support Guidelines table. Step 3: if higher-income parents have remaining income, a Standard of Living Allowance (SOLA) adds a percentage of that remainder. Combined monthly income up to $10,000 is fully tabled; above that, the court exercises discretion. Child care and extraordinary medical costs are added on top of the Melson base calculation. Administered by the Montana Child Support Enforcement Division (CSED) within DPHHS at dphhs.mt.gov/csed. Statute: Mont. Code Ann. § 40-4-204; Mont. Admin. R. 37.62.101. | Mont. Code Ann. § 40-5-209; Montana Child Support Guidelines |
| Nebraska | Income Shares | Income Shares model under Neb. Rev. Stat. § 42-364.16 and the Nebraska Child Support Guidelines (Appendix to Supreme Court Rules, §§ 4-201 through 4-225) using both parents' combined monthly gross income. The Nebraska Child Support Schedule covers combined monthly gross income up to $15,000; above that, the court may award additional support. Gross income deductions: pre-existing court-ordered child support and maintenance obligations. Parenting time adjustment: obligors with 10+ hours/week of parenting time receive a credit; the adjustment increases incrementally up to 50%+ parenting time. Child care and extraordinary medical expenses added proportionally. Minimum monthly support: $50. Administered by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services Child Support Enforcement (CSE) at dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Child-Support.aspx. Statute: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 42-364.16; Neb. Sup. Ct. R. §§ 4-201–4-225. | Neb. Rev. Stat. § 42-364.16; Nebraska Child Support Guidelines |
| Nevada | Percentage of Income | Percentage of obligor's gross monthly income under NRS § 125B.070 and the Nevada Child Support Guidelines: 18% for one child, 25% for two, 29% for three, 31% for four, plus 2% per additional child beyond four. Gross income cap: the percentage applies to the first $6,000/month of gross income; obligors earning more pay a flat additional amount for income above $6,000 at the court's discretion, not a fixed percentage. For obligors earning under $2,100/month, Nevada tables lower minimum amounts. This is a percentage-of-obligor's-income model — the custodial parent's income is not directly factored into the base calculation, though it may be considered for deviation. Child care and extraordinary medical costs may be added and split proportionally. Administered by the Nevada Division of Welfare and Supportive Services (DWSS) Child Support Enforcement Program at dwss.nv.gov. Statute: NRS § 125B.070; NAC § 425. | Nev. Rev. Stat. § 125B.070 |
| New Hampshire | Income Shares | Income Shares model under RSA § 458-C:2 using both parents' combined gross income and the New Hampshire Child Support Guidelines Schedule. Combined monthly gross income up to $10,000 is scheduled; above that, the court may deviate. Gross income deductions: pre-existing court-ordered child support and alimony obligations. Parenting time adjustment: New Hampshire uses a proportional overnights formula — as the non-custodial parent's overnight percentage increases, the transfer payment decreases on a sliding scale. Child care and extraordinary medical costs split proportionally. Minimum support order: $50/month. Administered by the New Hampshire Division of Child Support Services (DCSS) within the Department of Health and Human Services at dhhs.nh.gov/programs-services/child-support. Statute: RSA §§ 458-C:1 through 458-C:7. | N.H. Rev. Stat. § 458-C:3 |
| New Jersey | Income Shares | Income Shares model under N.J.S.A. § 2A:34-23 and New Jersey Court Rule 5:6A using both parents' combined weekly net income and the NJ Child Support Guidelines (Appendix IX-F, revised 2020). Combined weekly net income up to $3,600/week is scheduled; above that, the court may award additional support. Net income deducts federal and state income taxes (at actual withholding rate), FICA, Medicare, mandatory union dues, and pre-existing child support orders. New Jersey's guidelines include a 'self-support reserve' for very low-income obligors. Parenting time adjustment: a credit applies for every overnight above the 'typical' 2-week visitation schedule; obligors with 28%+ of overnights (104+ nights/year) use the 'shared parenting' formula. Child care and extraordinary medical costs are allocated proportionally. Administered by the New Jersey Child Support Program within OFE at nj.gov/dcf/families/support. Statute: N.J.S.A. § 2A:34-23; N.J.R. 5:6A and App. IX-F. | N.J. Ct. R. 5:6A; N.J. Stat. § 2A:17-56.52 |
| New Mexico | Income Shares | Income Shares model under N.M.S.A. § 40-4-11.1 using both parents' combined gross monthly income and the New Mexico Basic Child Support Schedule (revised 2022). The schedule covers combined monthly gross income up to $35,000; above that, the court exercises discretion. Gross income deductions: pre-existing child support orders and alimony paid. Parenting time adjustment: obligors with 35%+ of overnight parenting time (128+ nights/year) receive a proportional reduction using New Mexico's formula. Child care and extraordinary medical costs split proportionally by income share. Minimum support order: $25/month. Administered by the New Mexico Child Support Enforcement Division (CSED) within the Human Services Department at hsd.state.nm.us/child-support. Statute: N.M.S.A. § 40-4-11.1 and Rules 1-122 NMRA. | N.M. Stat. § 40-4-11.1 |
| New York | Income Shares | Income Shares model under N.Y. Dom. Rel. Law § 240 and the Child Support Standards Act (CSSA) using both parents' combined parental income and a flat percentage: 17% for one child, 25% for two, 29% for three, 31% for four, 35% for five or more. The percentage is applied to combined parental income up to the CSSA income cap (currently $183,000/year as of 2024, adjusted every two years by the Consumer Price Index). Each parent's share of the basic obligation is prorated to their share of combined income — this is the income-shares element. Above the cap, the court may award additional support based on the statutory factors. Allowable deductions: FICA, NYC/Yonkers local taxes, pre-existing child support orders, and alimony paid. The non-custodial parent pays their prorated share as the transfer payment. Administered by the New York Office of Child Support Services (OCSS) at ocfs.ny.gov/programs/childcare/csa. Statute: N.Y. Dom. Rel. Law § 240; FCA § 413; N.Y. Fam. Ct. Act § 413. | N.Y. Dom. Rel. Law § 240(1-b) |
| North Carolina | Income Shares | Income Shares model under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 50-13.4 using both parents' combined monthly gross income and the North Carolina Child Support Guidelines Schedule (effective October 2023). Combined monthly gross income up to $30,000 is scheduled; above that, the court may deviate based on need and ability to pay. Gross income does NOT deduct income taxes — North Carolina uses a gross income model. Pre-existing child support orders are deductible from gross income. Parenting time credit: obligors with at least 123 overnights/year (one-third of the year) receive a proportional adjustment — above that threshold, the schedule amount is reduced using North Carolina's specific overnight formula. Child care and extraordinary medical costs allocated proportionally. Administered by the NC Division of Social Services Child Support Services (CSS) at ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/child-support. Statute: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 50-13.4; North Carolina Child Support Guidelines. | N.C. Gen. Stat. § 50-13.4(c1) |
| North Dakota | Percentage of Income | Income Shares model under N.D.C.C. § 14-09-09.7 using both parents' combined monthly net income and the North Dakota Child Support Guidelines Schedule. The schedule covers combined monthly net income up to $20,000; above that, the court uses discretion. Net income deducts federal and state income taxes at actual withholding, FICA, Medicare, and pre-existing child support orders. Parenting time adjustment: obligors who exercise 50%+ of parenting time (183+ overnights/year) qualify for the 'shared parenting' formula which may significantly reduce or eliminate the transfer payment. Child care and extraordinary medical costs added proportionally. Minimum monthly support: $50. Administered by the North Dakota Child Support Division within the Department of Human Services at nd.gov/dhs/childsupport. Statute: N.D.C.C. § 14-09-09.7; North Dakota Child Support Guidelines, Admin. Code § 75-02-04.1. | N.D. Admin. Code § 75-02-04.1 |
| Ohio | Income Shares | Income Shares model under ORC § 3119.02 and Ohio's Child Support Guidelines using both parents' combined monthly gross income and the Ohio Basic Child Support Schedule (revised 2024). The schedule covers combined monthly gross income up to $336,000/year ($28,000/month); above that, the court may deviate. Gross income deductions: pre-existing court-ordered child support and spousal support obligations. Ohio's guidelines do NOT deduct taxes from gross income. Parenting time adjustment: the 'shared parenting' adjustment applies when the non-residential parent exercises 90+ overnights/year (25%+); an annual parenting time credit formula reduces the base obligation proportionally for each additional overnight above 90. Child care and extraordinary medical costs allocated proportionally. Administered by the Ohio Office of Child Support within the Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) at jfs.ohio.gov/ocschildsupport. Statute: ORC §§ 3119.02–3119.24. | Ohio Rev. Code § 3119.021 |
| Oklahoma | Income Shares | Income Shares model under 43 O.S. § 118 using both parents' combined monthly adjusted gross income and the Oklahoma Schedule of Basic Support Obligations. Combined monthly adjusted gross income up to $15,000 is scheduled; above that, the court applies a formula with discretion. Adjusted gross income deducts pre-existing child support and alimony obligations. Parenting time credit: obligors with 120+ overnights/year (33%+) receive a proportional overnight credit that reduces the basic obligation. For shared physical custody (50/50 split), Oklahoma uses a separate shared parenting formula. Child care and extraordinary medical costs added proportionally. Minimum monthly support: $20. Administered by the Oklahoma Child Support Services Division within the Department of Human Services at okdhs.org/childsupport. Statute: 43 O.S. § 118; Okla. Admin. Code § 340:25-5-230. | Okla. Stat. tit. 43, § 119 |
| Oregon | Income Shares | Income Shares model under ORS § 25.275 and the Oregon Child Support Guidelines (updated 2021) using both parents' combined monthly gross income and the Oregon Child Support Schedule. Combined monthly gross income up to $28,000 is scheduled; above that, the court may deviate using guidelines factors. Gross income deductions: pre-existing child support orders, spousal support paid under a court order, and self-employment taxes. Parenting time credit: obligors with 25%+ of overnights (91+ nights/year) receive a percentage reduction using the Oregon overnight formula; the reduction increases incrementally up to 50%+ parenting time. Child care and extraordinary medical costs allocated proportionally. Minimum monthly support: $25. Administered by the Oregon Child Support Program (CSP) within the Department of Justice at oregonchildsupport.gov. Statute: ORS §§ 25.275–25.400; Ore. Admin. R. 137-050-0750. | Or. Rev. Stat. § 25.275; OAR 137-050-0700 |
| Pennsylvania | Income Shares | Income Shares model under 23 Pa. C.S. § 4322 using both parents' combined monthly net income and the Pennsylvania Support Guidelines Schedule of Monthly Basic Support Obligations. Combined monthly net income up to $30,000 is scheduled; above that, the guidelines provide a formula. Net income deducts federal and state income taxes at actual withholding, FICA, Medicare, mandatory union dues, and pre-existing child support orders. Pennsylvania uses a 'melded' model: the obligor's basic support obligation is derived from the combined income schedule, then allocated proportionally. Parenting time credit: obligors with 40%+ of overnights (146+ nights/year) pay a reduced amount using the shared physical custody schedule. Child care and extraordinary medical costs allocated proportionally. Minimum monthly support: $100. Administered by the Pennsylvania Bureau of Child Support Enforcement (BCSE) within DHS at compass.state.pa.us/compass.web/Public/CME/ERP. Statute: 23 Pa. C.S. §§ 4322–4355; Pa. R.Civ.P. 1910.16. | Pa. R.C.P. 1910.16-3 |
| Rhode Island | Income Shares | Income Shares model under R.I. Gen. Laws § 15-5-16.2 using both parents' combined monthly gross income and the Rhode Island Child Support Guidelines Schedule (revised 2023). Combined monthly gross income up to $30,000 is scheduled; above that, the court may deviate. Gross income deductions: pre-existing child support orders and maintenance paid under a court order. Parenting time adjustment: Rhode Island uses a proportional overnight credit when the non-custodial parent exercises more than the standard visitation — credits begin at 40%+ overnights (146+ nights/year) using the state's shared custody formula. Child care and extraordinary medical costs allocated proportionally. Minimum monthly support: $50. Administered by the Rhode Island Division of Child Support Services (DCSS) at dcss.ri.gov. Statute: R.I. Gen. Laws § 15-5-16.2; Rhode Island Child Support Guidelines. | R.I. Gen. Laws § 15-5-16.2; Rhode Island Family Court Administrative Order 2024-04 |
| South Carolina | Income Shares | Income Shares model under S.C. Code Ann. § 63-17-470 using both parents' combined monthly gross income and the South Carolina Schedule of Basic Support Obligations. Combined monthly gross income up to $30,000 is scheduled; above that, the court may deviate. Gross income deductions: pre-existing child support orders and maintenance obligations. South Carolina uses gross income (not net) for the base calculation. Parenting time adjustment: obligors with more than the standard 'every other weekend' schedule receive a proportional credit; above 109 overnights/year (30%+), the shared custody formula reduces the transfer payment significantly. Child care and extraordinary medical costs allocated proportionally. Administered by the South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS) Child Support Enforcement at dss.sc.gov/child-support. Statute: S.C. Code Ann. § 63-17-470. | S.C. Code Ann. § 63-17-470; South Carolina Child Support Guidelines |
| South Dakota | Income Shares | Income Shares model under SDCL § 25-7-6.2 using both parents' combined monthly net income and the South Dakota Child Support Schedule of Basic Obligations. Combined monthly net income up to $15,000 is scheduled; above that, the court applies a formula with discretion. Net income deducts federal and state income taxes at actual withholding, FICA, Medicare, mandatory union dues, and pre-existing child support orders. Parenting time adjustment: obligors with 180+ overnights/year (49%+) may apply for a shared-custody formula. Child care and extraordinary medical costs allocated proportionally. Minimum support: $50/month. Administered by the South Dakota Office of Child Support Enforcement within the Department of Social Services at dss.sd.gov/childsupport. Statute: SDCL §§ 25-7-6.1 through 25-7-6.13. | S.D. Codified Laws § 25-7-6.2; ARSD 25:10:04 |
| Tennessee | Income Shares | Income Shares model using both parents' combined adjusted gross income under Tenn. Code Ann. § 36-5-101 and Tennessee Child Support Guidelines (Rule 1240-02-04). Combined income up to $32,000/month is fully scheduled in the Tennessee Schedule of Basic Child Support Obligations. Parenting time adjustment: obligors with 92+ days/year (alternative residential schedule) receive a 50% reduction; obligors with more than 182.5 days/year use a shared parenting formula. Allowable deductions include health insurance premiums, pre-existing child support obligations, and reasonable work-related child care. Administered by the Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS) Child Support Enforcement. Statute: Tenn. Code Ann. § 36-5-101; Tenn. R. & Regs. 1240-02-04. | Tenn. Code Ann. § 36-5-101; Tennessee Child Support Guidelines |
| Texas | Income Shares | Percentage of obligor's monthly net resources under Tex. Fam. Code § 154.125: 20% for one child, 25% for two, 30% for three, 35% for four, 40% for five, not less than 40% for six or more. 'Net resources' cap: the percentage applies to the first $9,200/month of net resources (as of 2023, adjusted periodically); for net resources above that cap, the court may award additional support proportional to the child's proven needs. Net resources includes wages, business income, and investment income; deductions for federal income taxes, Social Security, Medicare, union dues, and health/dental insurance for the child. For obligors earning below the 'self-support reserve' ($1,320/month net), Texas has a minimum order formula. Extended periods of possession (50/50 parenting time) may trigger a deviation from the guideline percentage. Administered by the Texas Office of the Attorney General Child Support Division at oag.texas.gov/child-support. Statute: Tex. Fam. Code §§ 154.001–154.309. | Tex. Fam. Code § 154.125 |
| Utah | Income Shares | Income Shares model under Utah Code § 78B-12-205 using both parents' combined monthly adjusted gross income and the Utah Child Support Table (revised 2023). Combined monthly adjusted gross income up to $15,000 is scheduled; above that, the court may award additional support. Adjusted gross income deducts pre-existing child support orders and alimony paid. Utah's guidelines use a 'base' calculation from the table, then allocate each parent's share proportionally. Parenting time adjustment: obligors with 30%+ of overnights (111+ nights/year) are entitled to a parenting time credit using Utah's 'joint-physical-custody' schedule, which may significantly reduce the transfer payment. Child care and extraordinary medical costs allocated proportionally. Minimum monthly support: $30. Administered by the Utah Office of Recovery Services (ORS) within DHHS at ors.utah.gov. Statute: Utah Code §§ 78B-12-201–78B-12-222. | Utah Code § 78B-12-301 |
| Vermont | Income Shares | Income Shares model under 15 V.S.A. § 654 using both parents' combined monthly available income and the Vermont Child Support Guidelines Schedule. Vermont defines 'available income' as gross income minus federal and state income taxes, FICA, Medicare, and prior child support orders — closer to net income than most states. Combined monthly available income up to $10,000 is scheduled; above that, the court applies a formula. Parenting time adjustment: obligors with 25%+ of overnights (91+ nights/year) receive a proportional credit. Vermont allows for significant deviation based on the financial resources of the child, special needs, and educational expenses. Child care and extraordinary medical costs allocated proportionally. Minimum monthly support: $50. Administered by the Vermont Office of Child Support (OCS) within DCF at dcf.vermont.gov/ocs. Statute: 15 V.S.A. §§ 650–668. | Vt. Stat. tit. 15, § 654; Vermont Rule for Family Proceedings 4(g) |
| Virginia | Income Shares | Income Shares model under Va. Code § 20-108.2 using both parents' combined monthly gross income and the Virginia Schedule of Monthly Basic Child Support Obligations. Combined monthly gross income up to $35,000 is scheduled; above that, the court may deviate based on the child's actual needs. Gross income deductions: pre-existing child support orders and spousal support obligations. Virginia uses gross income (not net) for the schedule. Parenting time credit: obligors who exercise more than the 'standard' visitation schedule receive a credit; when each parent exercises 35%+ of overnights (128+ nights/year), Virginia's 'shared physical custody' formula applies, which can substantially reduce the transfer payment. Child care and extraordinary medical costs allocated proportionally. Minimum monthly support: $68. Administered by the Virginia Department of Social Services Division of Child Support Enforcement (DCSE) at dss.virginia.gov/family/dcse. Statute: Va. Code §§ 20-108.1–20-108.2. | Va. Code § 20-108.2 |
| Washington | Income Shares | Income Shares model using both parents' combined monthly net income under the Washington State Child Support Schedule (Economic Table) per RCW § 26.19.020. The transfer payment equals each parent's proportional share of the scheduled basic support obligation. Residential time credit (formerly 'parenting time adjustment') reduces the obligation when the non-custodial parent has 35%+ of overnights annually — updated by SB 5800 effective 2023. Combined monthly net income up to $20,000/month is fully scheduled. Administered by the Division of Child Support (DCS) at dshs.wa.gov/dcs. Statute: RCW §§ 26.19.010–26.19.075. | Wash. Rev. Code § 26.19.020 |
| West Virginia | Income Shares | Income Shares model under W. Va. Code § 48-13-101 using both parents' combined monthly adjusted gross income and the West Virginia Child Support Schedule. Combined monthly adjusted gross income up to $15,000 is scheduled; above that, the court may deviate. Adjusted gross income deducts pre-existing child support orders, alimony paid, and maintenance obligations. Parenting time adjustment: obligors with more than the standard schedule (typically every other weekend + one mid-week) receive a proportional credit; the 'substantially equal parenting time' formula applies when each parent has 40%+ of overnights. Child care and extraordinary medical costs allocated proportionally. Minimum monthly support: $50. Administered by the West Virginia Bureau for Child Support Enforcement (BCSE) within DHHR at dhhr.wv.gov/bcse. Statute: W. Va. Code §§ 48-13-101 through 48-13-703. | W. Va. Code § 48-13-702 |
| Wisconsin | Percentage of Income | Percentage of obligor's gross income under Wis. Stat. § 767.511 and DCF 150: 17% for one child, 25% for two, 29% for three, 31% for four, 34% for five or more. Shared-placement adjustment (formerly 'serial-family adjustment') reduces the percentage when the child spends 25%+ of nights with the obligor annually — the reduction is prorated to the additional overnight percentage. Low-income obligors may use the minimum support order provisions. Administered by the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF) Bureau of Child Support. Statute: Wis. Stat. § 767.511; Wis. Admin. Code DCF § 150. | Wis. Stat. § 767.511; Wis. Admin. Code DCF 150 |
| Wyoming | Income Shares | Income Shares model under Wyo. Stat. § 20-2-304 using both parents' combined monthly net income and the Wyoming Presumptive Child Support (PCS) Table. Combined monthly net income up to $10,000 is scheduled; above that, the court determines support based on the needs of the child and the parents' ability to pay. Net income deducts federal and state income taxes at actual withholding, FICA, Medicare, mandatory union dues, and pre-existing child support orders. Parenting time adjustment: obligors with 40%+ of overnight time (146+ nights/year) may qualify for a reduced support amount under Wyoming's shared custody formula. Child care and extraordinary medical costs allocated proportionally. Minimum monthly support: $50. Administered by the Wyoming Child Support Enforcement (CSE) within the Department of Family Services at wyo.gov/services/child-support-enforcement. Statute: Wyo. Stat. §§ 20-2-301 through 20-2-316. | Wyo. Stat. § 20-2-304 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How is child support calculated?▾
It depends on which model your state uses. Income Shares states (41 states) look up both parents' combined income on a schedule to find the total child support obligation, then split it proportionally. Percentage of Income states base it on the non-custodial parent's income only — for example, Alaska uses 20% for one child, 27% for two, and 33% for three children. Melson Formula states (Delaware, Hawaii, Montana) use a modified income shares approach that first deducts a self-support allowance for each parent.
What's the average child support payment?▾
The national average child support payment is approximately $480 per month ($5,760 per year). However, actual payments vary enormously depending on the parents' incomes, number of children, custody arrangement, and the state's calculation model. High-income cases in states like California or New York can exceed $2,000–$3,000 per month, while lower-income cases may be under $200.
Until what age is child support paid?▾
In most states, child support ends at age 18 or when the child graduates high school, whichever comes later. However, several states extend support beyond 18 — New York requires support until age 21, Mississippi until 21, and Indiana until 19. Some states also allow extensions for children with disabilities or those enrolled in college.
Can child support be modified?▾
Yes. Either parent can request a modification when there is a material change in circumstances. Common qualifying changes include job loss, a significant increase or decrease in income, a change in custody arrangement, changes in the child's medical or educational needs, or the addition of new dependents. Most states require the change to result in at least a 10–15% difference in the support amount.
What happens if you don't pay child support?▾
Failure to pay child support can result in serious consequences including wage garnishment (the most common enforcement method), interception of tax reimbursements, suspension of driver's licenses and professional licenses, denial of passport applications, reporting to credit bureaus, contempt of court proceedings, and in extreme cases, jail time. The federal government can also pursue cases across state lines under the Deadbeat Parents Punishment Act.
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