Child Support Amounts

The amount of child support paid by noncustodial parents is determined at the state level, but some general guidelines can be applied universally. Some states allow their judges a lot of leeway in setting the actual amount, as long as the general state guidelines are followed. Others have very strict guidelines that leave the judges very little discretion. The factors usually include the needs of the child -- including health insurance, education, day care, and special needs; and the income and needs of the custodial parent. But the paying parent's ability to pay can also come into play. The following articles and state-specific resources cover child support guidelines, how to calculate child support amounts and related information.

Learn About Child Support Amounts

Guide to Getting Child Support [pdf]
Basics of obtaining child support in a printable format, including typical support amounts; how the amount of support is determined by courts; what it covers; and modification of child support.
How to Calculate Child Support
Answers to frequently asked questions about calculating child support, including the impact of custody arrangements; the impact of loan payments and taxes; and how to modify the amount of child support.
Child Support: Determining Parents' Income
Overview of how courts typically determine parents' income for calculating child support; such as the treatment of non-salary income such as pension income and the meaning of “unrealized” income.
What Does Child Support Cover?
Basics of what child support covers other than a child’s basic needs, such as medical care; college expenses; childcare; transportation and travel; activities such as sports and summer camps; and more.

State-Specific Child Support Guidelines
Links to state-specific resources for determining child support payments; pursuing child support through a court order; tracking down deadbeat parents; modifying child support; and related child support processes.
Uninsured Medical Expenses and Child Support
Explanation of noncustodial parents' responsibility to help pay for a child’s uninsured medical costs, such as doctor and prescription drug co-pays; orthodontic work; physical therapy; and elective procedures.
College Expenses and Child Support FAQ
Answers to frequently asked questions about the responsibility and legal obligations of unmarried parents to pay for their children's college education, which often depends on state laws and regulations.
Child Support Calculation Questionnaire
Handy questionnaire to help parents calculate their average expenses and income for the purpose of determining the noncustodial parent’s likely child support obligations.

Child Support Amounts Articles