Child Support Calculator by State
Get an instant child support estimate based on your state's actual formula. Free, anonymous, and used by parents across all 50 US states.
Child Support Calculator
Free 2026 estimate · Updates as you type
Child Support Calculators by State
Choose your state for guideline-specific examples, FAQs, and filing instructions.
How Child Support is Calculated in the US
Every US state has its own child support guidelines, but they fall into three families: Income Shares (used by 41 states including California, Florida, and New York), Percentage of Income (used by Texas, Mississippi, and a few others), and the Melson formula (used by Delaware, Hawaii, and Montana).
The Income Shares model is built on the principle that children should receive the same proportion of parental income they would have received if the parents lived together. It combines both parents' incomes, looks up a basic support obligation from a state schedule, then divides that obligation between the parents in proportion to their incomes.
The Percentage of Income model is simpler: the non-custodial parent pays a fixed percentage of their income, scaling with the number of children. This produces predictable results but ignores the custodial parent's earnings entirely.
| Feature | Income Shares | Percentage of Income |
|---|---|---|
| States that use it | ~41 states | Texas, Mississippi, Alaska, others |
| Considers both incomes? | Yes | No — only the obligor |
| Parenting time adjustment? | Most states adjust | Limited or none |
| Predictability | Moderate | High |
| Fairness to lower earners | Higher | Lower |
Child Support Guides
In-depth guides on modifying orders, 50/50 custody, taxes, and enforcement.
How is Child Support Calculated?
Income Shares vs. Percentage of Income — explained with real US examples.
Read guideHow to Modify Child Support
Step-by-step guide to changing your child support order in 2026.
Read guideChild Support with 50/50 Custody
Yes, you may still pay — here's how shared custody affects the math.
Read guideDoes Child Support Count as Income?
Federal tax rules for both the payer and the recipient.
Read guideHow Long Does Child Support Last?
Age limits state-by-state and exceptions for college and disability.
Read guideWhat Happens If You Don't Pay Child Support?
Wage garnishment, license suspension, and other enforcement actions.
Read guide