Child Support Tool

Clarity for families. Estimate monthly support obligations based on the standard Income Shares model used in many jurisdictions.

Parental Monthly Income
Children & Expenses
Combined monthly cost of health insurance and childcare.
Custody Split
Percentage of nights the child spends with you.
Monthly Support Amount
$425

Estimated payment to the other parent.

Combined Income
$8,000
Total Obligation
$1,700

How Child Support is Calculated

I genuinely believe that transparency reduces conflict during difficult family transitions. Most states use the **Income Shares Model**, which is based on the idea that a child should receive the same proportion of parental income that they would have received if the parents lived together.

The Basic Logic: The state looks at the combined income of both parents and determines a "Basic Support Obligation" (usually 15-30% depending on income and number of children). This amount is then split between the parents based on their percentage of the total income and their time spent with the child.

Key Factors:

  • Gross vs. Net Income: Most calculators use Net Income (after taxes). Some jurisdictions use Gross Income but allow deductions for health insurance or other child support orders.
  • Health Insurance: The cost of the child's health insurance premium is usually added to the basic support amount and split proportionally.
  • Childcare: Work-related daycare expenses are a major factor and are typically shared between parents.