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Legal DisclaimerThis calculator uses simplified Income Shares model approximations. Child support guidelines vary significantly by state and your actual obligation may differ. This is for educational purposes only — not legal advice. Consult a qualified family law attorney in your state.
Child support in the United States is determined at the state level, not federally. Each state uses one of three primary models: the Income Shares Model (used by most states), the Percentage of Income Model, or the Melson Formula. Despite the variation, all states share the same goal: ensuring children receive financial support proportionate to what their parents would have provided if the family remained intact.
The Income Shares Model — used by roughly 40 states — combines both parents' gross incomes, looks up a total child support obligation from a state table, then divides it between parents in proportion to their individual incomes. The Percentage of Income Model (used in states like Texas and Wisconsin) applies a fixed percentage directly to the non-custodial parent's income regardless of the other parent's earnings.
This calculator uses a blended estimate based on common state formulas. Because child support rules vary significantly by state, always verify your estimate against your specific state's guidelines or consult a family law attorney.
| State / Model | Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Income Shares (most states) | Both incomes determine total need | California, New York, Florida, Illinois, and ~35 others |
| Texas (% of income) | 20% (1 child), 25% (2), 30% (3) | Capped at $9,200/mo net income for standard guideline amount |
| Wisconsin (% of income) | 17% (1 child), 25% (2), 29% (3) | One of the simplest state models; no combined income table |
| Delaware (Melson Formula) | Most complex model | Sets a primary needs reserve before calculating obligation |
| Federal CCPA cap | 50-65% of disposable income | Maximum that can be withheld through income withholding orders |
The facts that brought you here often raise a second question; the child support modification calculator answers the most common one, while the multiple-family child support calculator and the college support calculator cover the questions that usually follow.
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