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Child Support Calculator (2024)

Estimate child support payments using the income shares model (used in 40+ US states) and percentage-of-income model. Multi-jurisdiction reference.

🌍 Multi-Jurisdiction✔ Income Shares Model

👨‍👧 Child Support Calculator (2024)

Results update instantly as you type

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Estimated Monthly Child Support
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Income Shares Model estimate
Monthly Support
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Annual Total
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Paying Parent Share
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% of Paying Income
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⚠️ Estimates vary greatly by jurisdiction. Courts have discretion to deviate from guidelines. Always consult a family law attorney for your specific case.

How Child Support Is Calculated

Child support guidelines vary significantly by country and state/province. The two dominant models in common-law jurisdictions are:

Income Shares Model (40+ US States)

Both parents' incomes are combined. The total child support obligation is determined from state-published tables. Each parent pays their proportionate share. For example, if the paying parent earns 62.5% of combined income, they pay 62.5% of the total obligation.

Percentage of Income Model (Some US States, rough international guide)

Child support is a fixed percentage of the paying parent's income: typically 17% for 1 child, 25% for 2, 29% for 3, 31% for 4 (varies by state). Texas, Wisconsin, and several other states use this model.

📐 Income Shares Formula

Support = (Payer Income ÷ Combined Income) × Total Obligation × Custody Factor
Total= Combined income mapped to state guideline table
Share= Paying parent % of combined income
Custody= Reduced if significant parenting time (50/50 = shared calc)

Frequently Asked Questions

South Africa uses a needs-based assessment governed by the Maintenance Act 99 of 1998. Both parents are obligated to contribute proportionally to the child's reasonable needs. The formula considers each parent's income, the child's actual needs (school fees, medical, food, clothing), and the amount of time the child spends with each parent. A maintenance court may order a specific monthly amount.
Yes. Child support orders can be modified when there is a material change in circumstances — such as a significant change in either parent's income, the child's needs, custody arrangement changes, or the paying parent losing employment. The process involves returning to court (or the maintenance court in SA).
In most jurisdictions, failure to pay court-ordered child support can result in wage garnishment, license suspension, contempt of court charges, and in serious cases, imprisonment. In SA, contempt of a maintenance court order is a criminal offence.
⚠️ Disclaimer This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only. Not legal or financial advice. Consult a qualified professional for your specific situation.