👶 Child Support Estimator
Estimate monthly child support using the income shares model — the most widely used formula in the US. Your children's financial needs don't change just because your household does.
💙 This estimate is for planning only. Every state has its own guidelines and courts have discretion. Work with a family law attorney.
Parent Information
$
$
10% (every other weekend)50% (equal)
Estimated Child Support
Combined Monthly Income
$10,000
Total Child Obligation
$2,500
Parent 2 Pays
$1,000/mo
Per Child
$500
Parent 2's income is 40% of combined income, so they pay 40% of the total obligation.
How Custody % Affects Support
Parent 2: 20% time
$1,000/mo
Parent 2: 30% time
$1,000/mo
Parent 2: 40% time
$1,000/mo
Parent 2: 50% time
$900/mo
Above 40% parenting time, a shared custody reduction typically applies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the income shares model work?
It combines both parents' incomes to set a total support obligation, then splits it proportionally by income share. The non-custodial parent pays their proportional share to the custodial parent.
Does parenting time affect child support?
Yes. States typically reduce support when the non-custodial parent has 40%+ of overnights. This recognizes that they're directly spending more on the child.
What counts as income?
Wages, bonuses, self-employment income, rental income, investments, and sometimes imputed income if a parent is voluntarily unemployed.
Can it be changed later?
Yes. Courts can modify support orders when there's a significant change in income, custody, or child needs.
Sources: NCSL Child Support Guidelines by State, HHS Child Support Guidelines, IRS Tax Topic 452. Last updated March 2026.