Child Support Calculator
Estimate child support payments based on both parents' incomes, number of children, and custody arrangement. Uses the Income Shares model used by most US states.
Gross monthly income
Enter 0 if unknown
Typical: 20% (every other weekend)
How to use Child Support Calculator
The child support calculator estimates monthly payments using the Income Shares model — the method used by the majority of US states. It combines both parents' incomes to determine a base obligation, then allocates each parent's share proportionally. Results are estimates; actual orders are set by a family court.
- Enter both parents' gross monthly incomes.
- Select the number of children.
- Choose the custody arrangement (physical custody split).
- Add extraordinary expenses (health insurance, childcare, medical).
- Review the estimated obligation and which parent pays how much.
Your data never leaves your device — 100% private processing.
The Income Shares model
Most US states use the Income Shares model: both parents' incomes are added, a base obligation is looked up from a state table (representing what intact families spend on children at that income level), and each parent pays their proportionate share. The non-custodial parent's share is paid directly; the custodial parent's share is assumed to be spent directly on the child. Extraordinary expenses (health insurance, childcare, tutoring) are added on top.
| Combined gross income | 1 child | 2 children | 3 children |
|---|---|---|---|
| $3,000/mo | ~$530 | ~$780 | ~$960 |
| $5,000/mo | ~$780 | ~$1,140 | ~$1,380 |
| $7,500/mo | ~$1,060 | ~$1,540 | ~$1,830 |
| $10,000/mo | ~$1,300 | ~$1,880 | ~$2,230 |
Modifications, deviations and enforcement
Courts can deviate from guidelines for high income, disabled children, shared-custody situations (50/50) or extraordinary needs. Child support orders can be modified when circumstances change substantially (income change > 15%, change in custody, new children, etc.). Non-payment can result in wage garnishment, licence suspension, contempt of court and tax-refund interception. Always consult a family law attorney for your specific state's guidelines.
Glossary
- Income Shares
- A child support model combining both parents' incomes to determine total obligation.
- Non-custodial parent
- The parent who does not have primary physical custody; typically pays support.
- Extraordinary expenses
- Work-related childcare, uninsured medical costs, and special educational needs added to base support.
- Modification
- A court-ordered change to the support amount following a material change in circumstances.
Related reading
Frequently Asked Questions
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