Child Support Calculators by State

Each state has its own child support formula that is used to determine the amount of monthly child support.

Sole Custody v. Joint Custody

The amount of child support payments will depend on whether one parent has sole custody or whether both parents have joint custody. When one parent has sole custody, the other non-custodial parent usually is the only party paying child support. When both parents have joint custody, the amount of child support is typically based on how much each parent earns and what percentage of time each parent spends with the child.

Calculating Child Support

There is considerable variation from state to state in how child support is actually calculated. What one parent in California pays could be far different that what that same parent might pay in Michigan given the exact same scenario. However, there are some factors that most states take into consideration in their child support formula:

• The financial needs of the child, including education, day care, insurance or any special needs.
• The income and needs of the parent with custody of the child.
• The income and ability to pay of the parent who is paying child support.
• The child’s standard of living before any separation or divorce (although the court takes into consideration the standard of living after divorce usually changes).

Parents are typically required to complete a financial statement to the court, including monthly income and expenses.

When you use DivorceWriter, the online interview will show you the child support calculation according to your state’s child support guidelines. Financial Statements and Child Support Worksheets will be generated along with the rest of your divorce papers, and will be ready for filing, if required by your state.

The table on this page links to child support calculators for most states. These calculators can be used to estimate the amount of child support that may be ordered. Final determination of the child support amount is always the decision of the court.

See Also

• How Does a Child's Preference Affect Custody?
• Online Divorce Papers