Arizona Child Support Calculator

How Arizona Calculates Child Support

Think of it like this: Arizona adds your and the other parent's incomes together to see what you would have spent on your children if you lived together. The court then divides that total support amount between you based on how much each of you earns.

Understanding Arizona's Shared Custody Rules

When your child spends a significant amount of time with both parents, Arizona's guidelines adjust the support amount to reflect the shared costs. This adjustment, often called a parenting time credit, typically applies when a parent has the child for a substantial number of nights per year, reducing their portion of the basic support obligation.

Arizona Child Support FAQs

At what age does child support end in AZ?

In Arizona, child support typically ends when a child turns 18. However, if the child is still attending high school, support continues until they graduate or turn 19, whichever happens first. Support may be extended for a child with significant disabilities.

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

If a parent is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed to avoid paying support, the court can 'impute' income. This means the court calculates support based on what that parent *could* be earning, considering their work history, skills, and local job opportunities.

How do I modify a child support order in AZ?

You can request a modification if there has been a 'substantial and continuing change in circumstances.' A change that would result in the child support amount changing by at least 15% (either higher or lower) is typically considered substantial enough to warrant a review.

Does AZ child support cover college expenses?

No, a court in Arizona cannot order a parent to pay for college expenses. The legal obligation for support ends at age 18 or 19 upon high school graduation. Parents may, however, voluntarily agree to cover college costs in a separate, legally binding agreement.

How does AZ handle health insurance and childcare costs?

These costs are added on top of the basic child support obligation. The total cost for the child's health/dental insurance and any necessary work-related childcare is added to the basic support amount and then divided between the parents in proportion to their incomes.