Child Support Calculator

Estimate child support payments using the income shares model based on both parents' income and custody split.
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Total Annual Obligation

$37,600.00

Parent 1 Share

$27,072.00

Parent 2 Share

$12,032.00

Support Calculation

Combined Gross Income$100,000.00
Base Obligation Rate (2 children)28%
Base Support Obligation$28,000.00
+ Child Care Costs (annual)$6,000.00
+ Health Insurance (annual)$3,600.00
Total Obligation$37,600.00

Each Parent's Share

Parent 1 Income Share60.0%
Parent 1 Annual Obligation$27,072.00
Parent 1 Monthly$2,256.00
Parent 2 Income Share40.0%
Parent 2 Annual Obligation$12,032.00
Parent 2 Monthly$1,002.67
Per Child (annual)$18,800.00

Use the Child Support Calculator above to calculate your results. Enter your values and see instant results — all calculations run in your browser.

Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, financial, or legal advice. Results are estimates based on the information you provide and current rates. Always consult a qualified tax professional or financial advisor for advice specific to your situation.

How It Works

Our 2026 Child Support Calculator helps you estimate potential child support payments using the Income Shares Model, a widely adopted method in many US states. This model aims to ensure children receive the same proportion of parental income they would have if their parents lived together, promoting their financial well-being. Understanding these estimates can be crucial for divorce proceedings, mediation, or simply for financial planning.

The Income Shares Model calculates child support by first combining both parents' adjusted gross incomes to determine a total 'basic support obligation' based on state-specific economic tables. This obligation is then divided proportionally between the parents according to their share of the combined income. Adjustments are made for factors like healthcare costs, childcare expenses, and any substantial overnight stays.

Remember, this calculator provides an estimate and should not be considered legal advice; actual court orders can vary significantly. Common mistakes include underestimating childcare costs or failing to account for fluctuating incomes. Always consult with a legal professional for precise calculations and guidance specific to your jurisdiction.

Example: 2026 Child Support Calculation for Two Children

  1. 1 Let's assume Parent A has an adjusted gross monthly income of $5,000 and Parent B has an adjusted gross monthly income of $3,000. They have two children. Monthly childcare costs are $800, and uninsured medical expenses are $150.
  2. 2 Combined adjusted monthly income is $8,000. Based on typical 2026 state guidelines for two children, the basic support obligation might be around $1,800. Parent A's income share is 62.5% ($5,000/$8,000) and Parent B's is 37.5% ($3,000/$8,000). Pro-rata share of childcare and medical expenses is added to the basic obligation. If Parent A is the primary custodial parent and pays all childcare and medical, Parent B's share of the total obligation is calculated, and then Parent A's direct payment of those expenses is credited.
  3. 3 After applying the income shares and expense adjustments, Parent B might be estimated to pay Parent A approximately $850 per month in child support. This figure accounts for Parent B's proportional share of the basic obligation, childcare, and medical expenses.
  4. 4 This estimated payment helps ensure the children maintain a similar standard of living as if both parents remained together. The final amount can be influenced by additional factors like extraordinary expenses, specific custody arrangements, or deviations allowed by the court based on individual circumstances.

Source: HHS — Office of Child Support Services · Last updated: April 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

How is child support calculated?
Most states use the income shares model, which estimates what parents would have spent on the child if they lived together, then divides that based on each parent's income share. Factors include gross income, number of children, custody arrangement, and healthcare/childcare costs.
Can child support be modified?
Yes. Either parent can request a modification if there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as a significant income change (increase or decrease), job loss, change in custody arrangement, or changes in the child's needs.
At what age does child support end?
In most states, child support ends at age 18 or high school graduation (whichever comes later). Some states extend support to age 19-21 or through college. Court orders may specify different end dates based on individual circumstances.

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