Kentucky Child Support Calculator
2026Estimate child support payments in Kentucky. Calculate expected KY child support obligations based on income, custody arrangement, and number of children using Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
Kentucky 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. Kentucky courts retain final discretion. Always confirm the current guideline tables and worksheet with the Kentucky child support agency or family court.
Kentucky child support: model, official calculator, enforcement agency
- Guidelines model
- Income Shares
- Official calculator
- Kentucky Child Support Guidelines worksheet (KRS 403.212)
Kentucky uses the Income Shares model under KRS 403.212, with guidelines revised most recently in 2018 (HB 154). The state has unique provisions for "extraordinary expenses" — work-related child care and unreimbursed health costs — split proportionally to combined income. The Cabinet for Health and Family Services' Division of Child Support administers enforcement; payments process through the Kentucky Centralized Collection Unit.
Kentucky Key Rates & Limits (2026)
| State Income Tax | 4% (flat) |
| State Sales Tax | 6% |
| Minimum Wage | $7.25/hr |
Kentucky 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.