Child Support Calculator
Estimate monthly child support from both parents' income, the number of children, and overnights - using your state's guideline model.
Frequently asked questions
How is child support calculated?
Most states use the income-shares model: combine both parents' incomes, find the basic obligation for that income and number of children, then split it by each parent's income share and parenting time. A few states (Texas, Wisconsin, Mississippi, Alaska) use a flat percentage of the paying parent's income.
Who pays child support?
Generally the parent with fewer overnights (the non-custodial parent) pays. More parenting time lowers the amount owed.
Is this calculator legally binding?
No. It is a planning estimate. Actual orders depend on your state's exact schedule, child-care and health-insurance add-ons, imputed income, and judicial discretion. Use your state's official worksheet for a binding figure.