Connecticut Child Support Calculator
2026Estimate child support payments in Connecticut. Calculate expected CT child support obligations based on income, custody arrangement, and number of children using Connecticut guidelines.
Written and reviewed by Konstantin Iakovlev · Methodology · Updated
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 Share | 60.0% |
| Parent 1 Annual Obligation | $27,072.00 |
| Parent 1 Monthly | $2,256.00 |
| Parent 2 Income Share | 40.0% |
| Parent 2 Annual Obligation | $12,032.00 |
| Parent 2 Monthly | $1,002.67 |
| Per Child (annual) | $18,800.00 |
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 is child support calculated in Connecticut?
Connecticut applies the Income Shares model. Both parents' gross incomes are combined and run through a guideline schedule that yields a basic monthly obligation. Each parent's share of that obligation is prorated by their percentage of combined income.
The calculation typically adjusts for: (1) work-related childcare, (2) the child's portion of health-insurance premiums, (3) extraordinary medical expenses, and (4) parenting time when overnights cross a state-defined threshold (e.g., 20%–40% depending on jurisdiction). Pre-existing support orders for other children, alimony paid, and mandatory retirement contributions also reduce gross income before the formula applies.
Guideline figures are presumptive — judges may deviate upward or downward when applying them would be unjust given the child's needs, the parents' resources, or other relevant factors. Connecticut courts retain final discretion. Always confirm the current guideline tables and worksheet with the Connecticut child support agency or family court.
Connecticut child support: model, official calculator, enforcement agency
- Guidelines model
- Income Shares
- Official calculator
- Connecticut Child Support and Arrearage Guidelines (worksheet)
Connecticut uses the Income Shares model under Conn. Gen. Stat. §46b-215a, with guidelines updated every four years (most recent 2024 cycle). The state's unique "shared physical custody" rules apply when each parent has at least 35% parenting time — modifying the standard formula significantly. The Child Support Enforcement Services Bureau handles enforcement; Connecticut was an early adopter of the Federal Case Registry and intercepts state lottery winnings for arrears.
Connecticut Key Rates & Limits (2026)
| State Income Tax | progressive (up to 7.0%) |
| State Sales Tax | 6.35% |
| Minimum Wage | $16.94/hr |
Connecticut child support — 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.