Child support amount depends on the combined parental income and the number of children involved. A rough estimate can be calculated by taking the gross income of the person paying support, adjusting it slightly based on the source of income, and multiplying it by a percentage based on the number of children:
- 17% for one child
- 25% for two children
- 29% for three children
- 31% for four children
- 35% or more for five or more children
For example, if the combined parental income is $120,000 and there are two children, the child support percentage is 25%. The basic child support obligation is then $30,000 annually, which is multiplied by the paying parent's share to determine the exact amount. Courts can adjust this amount based on specific circumstances such as transportation costs, time the child spends with each parent, or special expenses like medical insurance or union fees.
