Maine Child Support Calculator

How is Child Support Calculated in Maine?

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

Understanding Maine's Shared Custody Rules

When your child stays with each parent for a substantial amount of time (at least 109 overnights per year for the non-primary parent), Maine uses a special shared parenting formula. This calculation increases the basic support amount by 50% to cover the costs of two separate homes and then adjusts each parent's obligation based on their income and the number of nights the child spends with them.

Maine Child Support FAQs

At what age does child support end in ME?

In Maine, the duty to pay child support typically ends when a child turns 18. However, if the child is 18 and still attending high school full-time, support continues until they graduate or turn 19, whichever occurs first.

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

If a parent is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed, a Maine court can 'impute income.' This means the court will calculate child support based on the parent's potential earning capacity, considering their work history, skills, and local job opportunities.

How do I modify a child support order in ME?

You can request a modification of a child support order if there has been a 'substantial change in circumstances.' In Maine, this is generally presumed if the new calculation results in a change of 15% or more from the existing support order.

Does ME child support cover college expenses?

No, a court in Maine cannot order a parent to pay for a child's college or other post-secondary education expenses. Child support obligations end at age 18 or, at the latest, 19 if the child is still in high school. Parents may, however, voluntarily agree to cover these costs in a separate, enforceable agreement.

How does ME handle health insurance and childcare costs?

The costs of health insurance premiums and necessary work-related childcare are added on top of the basic child support obligation. These expenses are divided between the parents in proportion to their respective incomes.