Your State-by-State Guide to Child Support Calculators | Accurate Estimates Coast to Coast

Why Do Child Support Calculations Vary So Much Between States?

Child support laws are primarily determined at the state level. Each state legislature develops its own guidelines based on economic data, policy considerations, and philosophies about parental responsibility. This results in different formulas, definitions of income, and adjustments considered, leading to potentially different outcomes for families in similar financial situations but living in different states.

Understanding the Main Child Support Calculation Models

While the specifics differ, most states base their calculations on one of a few core models. Understanding these models is the first step in figuring out how to calculate child support in [your state].

1. The Income Shares Model

This is the most common model used in the U.S. The core idea is that children should receive the same proportion of parental income they would have received if the parents lived together. States using this model typically:

• Calculate the adjusted gross income of both parents.
• Combine the parents' incomes.
• Use a state-specific schedule or chart to determine the basic child support obligation based on the combined income and number of children.
• Prorate the basic obligation between the parents based on their percentage share of the combined income.
• Make adjustments for additional expenses like health insurance premiums, work-related childcare costs, and sometimes extraordinary medical or educational expenses.

States employing the Income Shares model include Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wyoming.

2. The Percentage of Obligor Income Model

This model calculates child support based on a percentage of the non-custodial parent's (obligor's) income. The percentage typically varies depending on the number of children being supported.

• Calculates the non-custodial parent's adjusted gross income.
• Applies a state-set percentage to that income based on the number of children.
• May include adjustments for healthcare or other specific costs, but the primary driver is the obligor's income.

States using this model include Mississippi, Nevada, South Carolina, and Texas. For example, the Texas child support formula calculator relies heavily on the non-custodial parent's net resources.

3. Hybrid Models (Including the Melson Formula)

Some states use hybrid approaches that combine elements of the other models or add unique factors.

• Melson Formula: Used by Delaware, this formula first ensures each parent has a minimum amount for self-support before calculating the child's primary needs and then applying a Standard of Living Adjustment (SOLA) based on remaining parental income.
• Other Hybrids: States like Alaska (for primary custody), North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin use variations that might resemble a percentage model for certain custody types but incorporate income sharing principles or specific adjustments for shared parenting or low/high incomes. For instance, the Michigan child support income shares model is technically an Income Shares model but has specific calculations based on parenting time overnights.

Key Factors Influencing Child Support Calculations

Regardless of the model, several common factors influence the final child support amount:

• Parental Income: This is the cornerstone of most calculations. States have specific definitions of "gross income" and allowable deductions to arrive at "net" or "adjusted gross income". Income can be imputed if a parent is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed.
• Number of Children: Support obligations generally increase with the number of children being supported.
• Parenting Time/Custody Arrangements: Many states adjust support based on the number of overnights the child spends with each parent, especially in shared custody situations. States like Florida require specific time-sharing percentages (e.g., 20%) to trigger adjustments.
• Health Insurance Costs: The cost of the child's portion of health insurance premiums is almost always factored in and allocated between parents.
• Childcare Costs: Work-related or education-related childcare expenses are often added to the basic obligation and prorated.
• Other Expenses: Some states allow adjustments for extraordinary medical expenses, educational costs, or long-distance travel for visitation.
• Existing Obligations: Support paid for children from other relationships is often deducted from gross income.

State-Specific Child Support Guidelines and Calculators

Finding accurate information requires consulting your specific state's resources. Many states provide official online calculators or worksheets. Using a free child support calculator from an official source is the best way to get a reliable estimate. Below are links to official guideline information or calculators for each state, based on our research:

The Need for an Accurate Child Support Calculator

As you can see, calculating child support involves complex formulas and numerous variables that differ significantly by state. Using an outdated or generic calculator can lead to inaccurate estimates, causing confusion and potential financial hardship. Whether you are navigating an uncontested divorce child support calculator scenario or a more complex modification, accuracy matters.

A reliable child support payment calculator designed for your specific state incorporates the correct guidelines, income definitions, and adjustments. It simplifies the process, providing a clearer picture of potential obligations or entitlements.

Ready to get a state-specific estimate? Try our free online divorce calculator which includes child support estimations based on your state's guidelines.

Remember, while calculators provide valuable estimates, the final child support order is determined by the court based on the specific facts of your case. If you have questions about child support laws by state or need legal advice, consulting with a qualified family law attorney in your jurisdiction is always recommended.