Child Support Calculator
Estimate monthly child support payments based on income and expenses
Additional Information and Definitions
Your Annual Income
Your total yearly income before taxes, including salary, bonuses, and other sources
Other Parent's Annual Income
The other parent's total yearly income before taxes
Number of Children
Total number of children under 18 requiring support
Your Custody Percentage
Your share of physical custody time with the children
Monthly Healthcare Expenses
Monthly medical, dental, and vision insurance costs for children
Monthly Childcare Expenses
Monthly daycare, after-school care, or babysitting expenses
Monthly Education Expenses
Monthly school fees, supplies, tutoring, or other educational expenses
Understanding Child Support Calculations
Key terms and concepts in child support determination
Base Support Amount:
The initial support calculation based on both parents' income and number of children, before adjustments for expenses and custody time.
Income Shares Model:
A calculation method that considers both parents' incomes to determine support obligations proportionally.
Custody Adjustment:
Modification to support amounts based on the percentage of time each parent has physical custody of the children.
Additional Expenses:
Extra costs like healthcare, childcare, and education that are typically shared proportionally between parents.
5 Mind-Blowing Facts About Child Support That Could Save You Thousands
Child support calculations are more complex than most people realize. Understanding these surprising facts could significantly impact your financial planning.
The Income Threshold Secret
Recent studies show that parents who document overtime and bonus income separately from base salary often receive more accurate support calculations. In fact, 65% of support orders are adjusted when detailed income documentation is provided.
The Custody Calendar Effect
Research reveals that a difference of just two overnight stays per month can change support calculations by up to 20% in many states. This little-known fact affects thousands of support orders annually.
The Healthcare Loophole
Only 31% of parents know they can request support modifications when healthcare costs change by more than 15%. This oversight costs families millions in unclaimed adjustments each year.
The Education Exception
A 2022 study found that including private school tuition in support calculations can increase total support by 40-60%, yet only 22% of eligible parents include these costs in their initial calculations.
The Modification Timeline
Statistics show that parents who review their support orders every two years receive an average of 28% more in total support over time, due to income changes and cost-of-living adjustments that often go unclaimed.