Idaho Child Support Calculator

How Idaho Calculates Child Support

Idaho looks at what both you and the other parent earn to figure out the total amount you would likely spend on your kids if you lived together. This total is then split between you based on each parent's percentage share of the combined income.

Understanding Idaho's Shared Custody Rules

When each parent has the children for at least 92 overnights per year (about 25% of the time), Idaho uses a special shared custody formula. This calculation acknowledges the increased costs of maintaining two separate households for the children and adjusts the final support amount.

Idaho Child Support FAQs

At what age does child support end in ID?

In Idaho, the duty to pay child support typically ends when a child turns 18. However, if the child is still attending high school, support continues until they graduate or reach age 19, whichever occurs first.

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

If a parent is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed, an Idaho court can 'impute' income. This means the judge calculates support based on the parent's potential earnings, considering their work history, skills, education, and local job opportunities.

How do I modify a child support order in ID?

To modify a child support order in Idaho, you must prove a 'substantial and material change in circumstances' since the last order was issued. A common guideline for this is a change that would cause the calculated support amount to increase or decrease by 10% or more.

Does ID child support cover college expenses?

No, Idaho courts cannot order a parent to pay for a child's college or post-secondary education expenses. Support for college can only be included in an order if both parents agree to it in a written stipulation.

How does ID handle health insurance and childcare costs?

The costs for the child's portion of health insurance premiums and necessary work-related childcare are treated as add-on expenses. These amounts are typically added to the basic child support obligation and divided between the parents in proportion to their incomes.