Maryland Child Support Calculator
2026Estimate child support payments in Maryland. Calculate expected MD child support obligations based on income, custody arrangement, and number of children using Maryland 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 Maryland?
Maryland 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. Maryland courts retain final discretion. Always confirm the current guideline tables and worksheet with the Maryland child support agency or family court.
Maryland child support: model, official calculator, enforcement agency
- Guidelines model
- Income Shares
- Official calculator
- Maryland Child Support Guidelines (Family Law §12-204)
Maryland uses the Income Shares model under Family Law §12-204, with guidelines updated effective October 2022 (Maryland Rules 9-203). Maryland's unique "shared physical custody" formula applies when each parent has at least 35% overnights, with a different worksheet (Worksheet B). The Maryland State Disbursement Unit processes payments; the Office of Child Support Enforcement within DHS handles the state's 200,000+ cases.
Maryland Key Rates & Limits (2026)
| State Income Tax | progressive (up to 6.5%) |
| State Sales Tax | 6% |
| Minimum Wage | $15/hr |
Maryland 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.