Alabama Child Support Calculator

How to Use the Alabama Child Support Calculator

Alabama determines child support by looking at what you and the other parent would likely spend on your children if you were still together. The state uses a chart to find this 'basic obligation' based on your combined income and number of kids, then splits the cost between you based on who earns more.

Understanding Alabama's Shared Custody Rules

If a parent cares for the children for at least 146 nights per year, Alabama may apply a special shared parenting time formula. This formula increases the total support amount to account for duplicated costs in two homes, and then adjusts each parent's obligation based on their income and exact number of overnights.

Alabama Child Support: Frequently Asked Questions

At what age does child support end in AL?

In Alabama, the duty to pay child support typically ends when a child turns 19 years old. However, if the child is still enrolled in high school, support may continue until they graduate.

How is child support calculated if one parent is unemployed in AL?

If a parent is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed, the court can 'impute' income. This means the judge will calculate support based on what that parent could be earning by considering their work history, skills, and local job opportunities.

How do I modify a child support order in AL?

To modify child support in Alabama, you must show a 'material and substantial change in circumstances.' A change that would result in at least a 10% difference in the calculated child support amount is presumed to be a valid reason for modification.

Does AL child support cover college expenses?

Yes, Alabama courts have the authority to order a parent to contribute to post-minority support for college expenses. The court will consider the child's needs, the parents' financial ability, and other factors before ordering support for higher education.

How does AL handle health insurance and childcare costs?

The costs for the child's health insurance premium and any necessary work-related childcare are added on top of the basic child support obligation. These additional expenses are then divided between the parents based on their proportional shares of their combined income.