Understanding the Basics of Child Support
Child support is a legal obligation paid by one parent to the other to support their child’s financial needs after separation or divorce. But the big question is: how is the amount determined—and does it vary depending on where you live?
The short answer: yes, it varies by state. This guide breaks down the core factors, methods used, and gives you an overview of how it works in different states, so you can better understand your responsibilities or rights.
Why Child Support Exists
Child support ensures that the child’s standard of living is preserved even when their parents are no longer together. The money is meant to cover essentials like:
- Housing and utilities
- Food and clothing
- Medical care and health insurance
- Schooling and daycare
- Extracurricular activities in some cases
Key Factors That Influence Child Support Amounts
While laws vary by state, most child support calculations consider:
- Each parent’s income
- The number of children involved
- Custody arrangement (joint vs. sole custody)
- Health care and insurance costs
- Daycare or childcare expenses
- Special needs or educational costs
The more shared expenses and parenting time involved, the more complex the formula may become.
Common Calculation Models by State
There are three primary models used to determine child support in the U.S., and each state uses one of these systems:
1. Income Shares Model (used in 41 states)
This model assumes that the child should receive the same proportion of parental income that they would have received if the parents stayed together.
States using this model include:
California, Texas, Florida, New York, Illinois, Georgia, Ohio, and most others.
Example:
If the combined parental income is $6,000 per month, and the state guideline says $1,200 should go toward one child, then each parent pays a share based on their income contribution.
2. Percentage of Income Model
Used by fewer states, this model bases child support solely on the noncustodial parent’s income and ignores the custodial parent’s income.
States using this model include:
Wisconsin, Mississippi, and North Dakota.
Example:
If the guideline is 17% for one child and the noncustodial parent earns $4,000/month, they would pay $680/month.
3. Melson Formula
This is a more complex model used in only a couple of states (like Delaware and Hawaii). It ensures both the child’s needs and each parent’s minimum self-support needs are met before calculating child support.
Child Support Examples by State
Here’s a simplified look at how a few major states calculate child support:
California:
Uses the Income Shares Model. Includes time spent with each parent, gross incomes, and deductions like taxes and mandatory expenses.
Texas:
Uses a percentage model. 20% of the noncustodial parent’s net income for one child, 25% for two, and so on.
New York:
Follows a fixed percentage guideline: 17% for one child, 25% for two, plus prorated health and childcare costs.
Florida:
Uses the Income Shares Model, including overnight stays and medical costs, and provides an online calculator for parents.
Illinois:
Switched to the Income Shares Model in 2017. Also considers parenting time and adjusted net income.
Ohio:
Uses a combination of income shares and special adjustments for low-income and high-income families.
Pennsylvania:
Uses a guideline-based table plus additional calculations based on income and custody percentage.
Arizona:
Uses the Income Shares Model with parenting time factored in. The state provides a worksheet to plug in your numbers.
Adjustments and Deviations
In any state, courts may deviate from the standard calculation based on:
- High-income earners
- Special needs of the child
- Shared parenting time (50/50)
- Voluntary unemployment or underemployment
- Additional dependents from other relationships
If there are valid reasons, either parent can request a deviation from the guideline amount.
Can You Estimate Child Support?
Yes, most states offer free online calculators on their official child support enforcement websites. Just input:
- Your income
- Other parent’s income
- Number of children
- Health costs and child care
- Custody or parenting time
These calculators provide an estimate—not a court order—but can help you prepare for negotiations or court proceedings.
What Happens If Child Support Isn’t Paid?
Failing to pay court-ordered child support can result in serious consequences:
- Wage garnishment
- Suspension of driver’s or professional licenses
- Tax refund interception
- Seizure of bank accounts
- Jail time in extreme cases
Can Child Support Be Modified?
Yes. If there’s a change in financial circumstances, like job loss or increase in income, you can petition the court for a modification.
To do this:
- File a motion with the court
- Provide updated income documentation
- Attend a hearing if required
Support can increase or decrease, depending on the new facts.
Final Thoughts: Every State Is Different—Know Yours
While child support is a national concept, each state has its own guidelines and formulas. Whether you’re the paying or receiving parent, it’s critical to understand how child support is calculated in your state and how it can be enforced or modified.
Always consult a local family law attorney or your state’s child support office for guidance specific to your case.
Bonus Tip:
Check your state’s child support calculator or downloadable worksheet for accurate estimates.
