Florida Child Support Calculator — How It Works
Florida's Income Shares Model
Florida calculates child support under Florida Statute 61.30 using the Income Shares model.
The idea is that a child should receive the same proportion of parental income they would have received if the parents lived together.
Both parents' gross incomes are combined, deductions are applied to arrive at net income, and a base support obligation
is determined from Florida's official guidelines schedule.
What Is Included in the Calculation?
The base child support obligation from the guidelines table is adjusted for:
healthcare insurance premiums paid for the child, work-related childcare costs,
and any substantial timesharing adjustments if the non-custodial parent has the child for 110+ overnights per year.
Each parent's share of these costs is proportional to their share of combined income.
Child Support = (Basic Obligation + Healthcare + Childcare) × Non-Custodial Parent's Income %
Substantial Timesharing in Florida
If the non-custodial parent has the child for 110 or more overnights per year, Florida law
requires a substantial timesharing adjustment that typically reduces the support obligation.
This recognises that the non-custodial parent is bearing more direct costs during their parenting time.
For standard arrangements (under 73 overnights), no adjustment applies.
How to Use Your Take-Home Pay to Budget for Child Support
Once you have your child support estimate, use our Florida paycheck calculator or
your monthly take-home pay. For hourly workers, the hourly paycheck calculator
shows your net weekly and monthly income.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is child support calculated in Florida?
Florida uses the Income Shares model under Florida Statute 61.30. Both parents' net monthly incomes are combined to find a basic support obligation from the guidelines table. Each parent's share is proportional to their percentage of combined income. The non-custodial parent typically pays their proportional share to the custodial parent.
What counts as income for Florida child support?
Florida counts all sources of income including wages, salary, bonuses, commissions, self-employment income, rental income, Social Security benefits, unemployment compensation, workers' compensation, and recurring gifts. Income is calculated as net income after taxes and required deductions.
Can Florida child support be modified?
Yes. Florida child support can be modified if there has been a substantial change in circumstances — such as a significant income change (typically 15% or more), a change in custody arrangement, or a change in the child's needs. Either parent can petition the court for a modification.
How long does child support last in Florida?
In Florida, child support typically continues until the child turns 18, or 19 if still in high school and reasonably expected to graduate before turning 19. Support can continue beyond 18 for a child with a disability who cannot support themselves.