Delaware Child Support Calculator
2026Estimate child support payments in Delaware. Calculate expected DE child support obligations based on income, custody arrangement, and number of children using Delaware 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 Delaware?
Delaware applies the Melson formula (an Income Shares variant with a self-support reserve). The court first sets aside a self-support reserve to cover each parent's basic needs, then a primary support obligation is calculated from combined adjusted income, with any remaining income shared via a standard-of-living allowance.
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. Delaware courts retain final discretion. Always confirm the current guideline tables and worksheet with the Delaware child support agency or family court.
Delaware child support: model, official calculator, enforcement agency
- Guidelines model
- Melson Formula
- Official calculator
- Delaware Child Support Formula (Melson Formula calculator)
Delaware is one of just three states using the Melson Formula (with Hawaii and Montana) — a hybrid model that first calculates each parent's self-support reserve, then primary support for children, then a "standard of living adjustment" that allocates additional income to children when the obligor's income exceeds basic needs. The Family Court uses the official Delaware Child Support Formula calculator. The Division of Child Support Services manages enforcement under Title 13.
Delaware Key Rates & Limits (2026)
| State Income Tax | progressive (up to 6.6%) |
| State Sales Tax | 0% |
| Minimum Wage | $15/hr |
Delaware 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.