How is child support calculated?

Child support calculations vary by state, but most jurisdictions use one of two primary models: the income shares model or the percentage of income model. The income shares model, used by the majority of states, considers both parents' incomes and estimates what the family would have spent on the children if the household remained intact. The percentage of income model, used in fewer states, calculates support as a percentage of the non-custodial parent's income.

Common factors that affect child support calculations include each parent's gross income, the number of children, the custody arrangement (specifically the percentage of time each parent has the children), healthcare and childcare costs, and any special needs of the children. Some states also factor in the standard of living the children enjoyed during the marriage.

Child support typically covers basic necessities such as food, housing, and clothing. Additional expenses like health insurance premiums, uninsured medical costs, extracurricular activities, and educational expenses may be handled separately depending on the state.

In most jurisdictions, child support can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a substantial change in either parent's income, a change in the custody arrangement, or a change in the children's needs. Child support generally continues until the child reaches the age of majority, which is 18 in most states but can extend through college in some jurisdictions.

DIVORSAY's ClearSplit calculator includes child support estimates based on your state's guidelines, helping you plan and prepare for this aspect of your divorce.