Calculator 2026
Get instant, accurate child support calculations using the official Florida guidelines. No signup. No ads. 100% free.
Florida uses the Income Shares Model to calculate child support, ensuring children receive the same proportion of parental income they would have if the family remained intact.
Each parent's gross income is adjusted by subtracting mandatory deductions including federal income tax, FICA (Social Security and Medicare), mandatory union dues, mandatory retirement contributions, health insurance for the parent only, and court-ordered support for other children.
Both parents' net monthly incomes are added together to find the combined household income available for child support.
Using the Florida Statute § 61.30 guidelines schedule, the basic monthly obligation is determined based on combined net income and the number of children (1-6).
If BOTH parents have substantial timesharing (73+ overnights each, or 20%), the basic obligation is multiplied by 1.5. This accounts for the increased expenses of maintaining two households.
Childcare costs and child health insurance premiums are split proportionally based on each parent's income share percentage.
The net child support payment is the difference between each parent's weighted obligation (for substantial timesharing) or the income share proportion (for standard cases).
Florida Statute § 61.30 defines 'substantial timesharing' as when a parent exercises at least 20% of the overnights per year, which equals 73 nights (20% of 365 days). When both parents meet this threshold, the gross-up method is applied: the basic child support obligation is multiplied by 1.5 to account for the costs of maintaining two households.
For 2026, FICA consists of: (1) Social Security tax at 6.2% on income up to $184,500 per year, (2) Medicare tax at 1.45% on all income, and (3) Additional Medicare tax at 0.9% on income over $200,000 (single) or $250,000 (married filing jointly).
Florida law allows these mandatory deductions: federal income tax, FICA/self-employment tax, mandatory union dues, mandatory retirement contributions (not voluntary 401k), health insurance premiums for the parent only (not children), court-ordered support for other children, and court-ordered alimony paid from a previous marriage.
For high-income families with combined net income over $10,000/month, Florida uses this formula: Basic Obligation = Amount at $10,000 + (Excess Income × Percentage). The percentages are: 5% (1 child), 7.5% (2 children), 9.5% (3 children), 11% (4 children), 12% (5 children), 12.5% (6 children).
Childcare expenses (daycare, after-school care) and child health insurance premiums are divided between parents in proportion to their income share percentages. For example, if Parent 1 earns 60% of the combined net income, they pay 60% of these additional expenses.
Yes. Florida allows modification if there's a 'substantial change in circumstances' and the new calculation would differ by at least 15% or $50 from the current amount. Common reasons include significant income changes, changes in timesharing, or changes in health insurance/childcare costs.
Even with equal (50/50) overnight splits (183/182 days), child support is still typically paid if there's an income disparity between parents. The gross-up method (1.5x multiplier) is applied, and the parent with higher income usually pays the difference to equalize the child's standard of living in both households.
No. This calculator provides an estimate based on Florida Statute § 61.30. Only a court order or legally filed agreement determines actual child support obligations. Courts may deviate from guidelines based on the child's needs, parental circumstances, or other relevant factors. Always consult a Florida family law attorney for official calculations.
The primary update for 2026 is the Social Security wage base increase to $184,500 (from $168,600 in 2025), affecting FICA calculations. The basic child support formula and guidelines schedule remain unchanged from previous years, providing consistency for families.
Florida Statute § 61.30 is the state law that establishes the child support guidelines schedule, calculation methodology, and enforcement procedures. It outlines allowable deductions, the Income Shares Model, substantial timesharing adjustments, and the percentage-based formula for high-income cases.
Updated 2026 FICA Rates: Our calculator uses the latest Social Security wage base of $184,500 for accurate net income calculations.
Substantial Timesharing: The 1.5x gross-up multiplier applies automatically when both parents have 73+ overnights per year.
Income Shares Model: Florida's approach ensures children receive support proportional to both parents' incomes.
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This calculator is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Child support calculations can be complex and may involve factors not addressed by this tool. Courts have discretion to deviate from guideline amounts based on specific circumstances. For legal advice regarding your child support case, consult a licensed Florida family law attorney.