Child Support Calculator

How child support is calculated

Most states use the income-shares model, which estimates how much parents would have spent on their children if they remained together. Both parents' incomes are combined, a percentage is allocated based on the number of children, and each parent's share is proportional to their earnings.

Key factors that affect the final amount include health insurance premiums, childcare expenses, special needs of the child, and the custody arrangement. States may also apply adjustments for high or low income levels.

State-by-state variations

While the income-shares model is the most common approach, each state has its own guidelines and calculation formula. Some states (like Texas and Wisconsin) use a percentage-of-income model, while Delaware, Hawaii, and Montana use the Melson formula, which accounts for each parent's basic living needs before calculating support.

For state-specific guidance, see our child support guidelines by state, browse our state support guides, or try our divorce cost estimator.