How is child support calculated in the USA?

Over 40 states use the Income Shares Model: both parents' gross incomes are combined, and a state guideline percentage based on the number of children is applied. The non-custodial parent's proportional share of that amount is the monthly payment.

Does custody percentage affect child support?

Yes. In shared custody arrangements (typically when the non-custodial parent has 40%+ parenting time), most states apply a discount to the payment amount because the non-custodial parent directly incurs child-rearing costs during their time.

Is child support based on gross or net income?

Most states base child support on gross income (before taxes). However, some states including Illinois and Indiana use net income. Our calculator uses gross income, which is the most common standard across the USA.

Can child support be modified after it is set?

Yes. Either parent can request a modification if there is a substantial change in circumstances — typically a 15-20% change in income, job loss, disability, or a change in the child's needs. You must file a formal motion with the court.

Until what age is child support paid in the USA?

In most states, child support continues until the child turns 18. Some states extend to 19 or 21 if the child is still in high school or college. A few states may require support through college. Always check your specific state's laws.

Child Support Calculator - calculatordekho.com

Child Support Calculator 2026 — Estimate Monthly Payments (USA)

The Income Shares Model — used by 40+ US states — combines both parents' incomes and splits the obligation proportionally. This calculator shows you how the number is arrived at, not just what it is.

📐 Income Shares Formula

Combined Income  = Your Income + Other Parent Income
Basic Support    = Combined × Rate%
  1 child=17%  2=25%  3=29%  4+=31%
Your Share %     = Your Income ÷ Combined Income
Your Obligation  = Basic × Your Share%
Custody Adjust   = Reduced for parenting time
─────────────────────────────────────────
Monthly Payment  = Obligation × Custody Factor

📌 Real Example — Ohio, 2 Children

Michael: $6,000/mo | Priya: $2,500/mo | 2 kids | 25% parenting time

Combined: $8,500/mo
Basic (25%): $8,500×25% = $2,125/mo
Michael's share: 70.6% → $1,500/mo
Custody reduction: −$125
Michael pays: ~$1,375/month

What Counts as Income?

Courts include salary, overtime, freelance income, bonuses (averaged), rental income, Social Security, and workers' compensation. They do not count SSI, SNAP, or a new spouse's income.

Child Support by State

Texas: Percentage of Income Model — only non-custodial parent's income. 20% for 1 child, 25% for 2, 30% for 3.

California: Complex guideline formula. Considers both incomes AND the higher earner's parenting time. Tends to produce higher amounts.

New York: Combined Parental Income up to $163,000 cap. 17%/25%/29%/31%/35%.

Florida: Income Shares with a recent presumption of 50/50 custody as the starting point.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does child support change if I lose my job?+

Yes, but you must immediately file a modification request — never just stop paying. Courts require a substantial change (15–20%+ income change). Until modified, you owe the original amount. Unpaid support accrues interest and triggers enforcement.

Is child support taxable in 2026?+

No. Child support is neither taxable for the recipient nor deductible for the payer — unchanged by the 2018 TCJA. Only one parent can claim the child as a tax dependent, usually negotiated in the divorce agreement.

Does 50/50 custody mean no child support?+

Not automatically. If both parents earn equal income, support may be zero. But if incomes differ significantly, the higher earner typically still pays a reduced amount — because children should benefit from both parents' income levels.

Until what age is child support paid?+

Most states: age 18, or 19 if still in high school. New York extends to 21. A few states include college support. Check your specific state's law and your divorce decree for any special provisions.

What happens if the paying parent doesn't pay?+

Wage garnishment (up to 65%), tax refund interception, bank levies, driver's license suspension, professional license revocation, passport denial, credit damage, and jail time for contempt in severe cases. Federal enforcement agencies assist states.

👨‍👧 Child Support Calculator

Your Monthly Income (USD)

Other Parent's Monthly Income (USD)

Number of Children

Your Parenting Time (%)

Your Role

Estimated Monthly Payment

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Combined Income

Basic Support Amount

Your Income Share

Custody Adjustment

⚠️ Estimate using Income Shares Model. Actual amount set by court order. Consult a family law attorney.

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USA 2026 federal formulas
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