Colorado Child Support Calculator

How Colorado Calculates Child Support (ELI5)

Think of it like splitting a bill for your kids. Colorado first adds your and the other parent's gross incomes together. Based on that combined total, the state has a chart to find a basic support amount, which is then divided between you based on your percentage of the combined income.

Understanding Colorado's Shared Custody Rules

When each parent has the children for at least 93 overnights per year, Colorado uses a special 'shared custody' formula. This formula increases the total support obligation by 50% to account for duplicated costs in two households. The final amount is then adjusted based on the percentage of time the children spend with each parent.

Colorado Child Support: Frequently Asked Questions

At what age does child support end in CO?

In Colorado, child support typically ends when a child turns 19. However, if the child is still attending high school or an equivalent program, support continues until the end of the month after graduation, but not past age 21.

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

If a parent is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed, a Colorado court can 'impute income.' This means the judge calculates support based on what that parent *could* be earning, considering their education, work history, and local job opportunities. This ensures children are supported even if a parent chooses not to work.

How do I modify a child support order in CO?

You can request a modification if there has been a 'substantial and continuing change' in circumstances. In Colorado, this is legally defined as a change that would cause the current child support order to increase or decrease by 10% or more. To do so, you must file a motion to modify with the court.

Does CO child support cover college expenses?

Basic child support does not automatically cover college. However, Colorado courts have the authority to order parents to contribute to post-secondary education expenses (like college or vocational school) until the child turns 21. This is a separate order from basic child support and is not guaranteed.

How does CO handle health insurance and childcare costs?

Costs for the child's health insurance premiums and necessary work-related childcare are added on top of the basic child support amount. These expenses are divided between the parents in proportion to their incomes. The parent paying these costs typically receives a credit in the overall calculation.