Hawaii Child Support Calculator

How is Child Support Calculated in Hawaii?

Think of it like putting on your own oxygen mask first. Hawaii's unique formula first makes sure you and the other parent each have money for your own basic needs. Then, it sets aside a base amount for your children before sharing a percentage of any leftover income so the kids can benefit from your standard of living.

Understanding Hawaii's Shared Custody Rules

When you share custody more equally, Hawaii's guidelines recognize that both parents are covering more direct costs for the children. If your child spends a significant number of overnights with each parent (typically over 143 nights per year), the court uses a different calculation that can lower the final child support amount to reflect these shared expenses.

Hawaii Child Support: Frequently Asked Questions

At what age does child support end in HI?

In Hawaii, the obligation to pay child support typically ends when a child turns 18. However, support can be extended until age 23 if the child is unmarried and enrolled full-time in high school, an accredited college, or a vocational school.

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

If a parent is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed, the court can 'impute' income. This means support will be calculated based on what the parent could and should be earning, considering their work history, skills, and local job opportunities. If unemployment is involuntary, the court may base support on actual income, such as unemployment benefits.

How do I modify a child support order in HI?

You can request a modification by showing a 'substantial and material change in circumstances' since the last order was issued. While there isn't a strict percentage rule, a change in income that would result in at least a 10% difference in the calculated support amount is often considered significant enough to warrant a review.

Does HI child support cover college expenses?

Yes. Uniquely, Hawaii courts have the authority to order parents to contribute to an adult child's post-secondary education expenses. This support can continue until the child reaches the age of 23, provided they are enrolled full-time in an accredited institution.

How does HI handle health insurance and childcare costs?

The costs for the child's health insurance premium and necessary work-related childcare are treated as mandatory add-ons to the basic support amount. These expenses are typically divided between the parents in proportion to their respective shares of their combined income.