Maine Child Support Calculator

How is Child Support Calculated in Maine?

Maine calculates child support to ensure your child receives the same level of financial support as if you lived together. Governed by 19-A M.R.S. § 2001, the state combines both parents' gross incomes to determine a basic support amount, then divides this obligation proportionally based on each parent's share of the combined income.

Understanding ME's Shared Parenting Time Adjustment

In Maine, child support may be adjusted when a parent has the child for a substantial period of time. Governed by 19-A M.R.S. § 2006(5)(D), this shared parenting calculation is triggered when the non-primary care parent has the children for at least 109 overnights per year, which grosses up the basic support obligation by 50% before apportioning it based on parenting time.

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✓ Verified for 2026 Guidelines • Reviewed October 2026 by Harmoney

Maine Child Support Guidelines at a Glance

Guideline Model Income Shares Model
Governing Legal Authority 19-A M.R.S. § 2001 et seq.
Shared Custody Threshold 109 Overnights (approx. 30% time)
Age Support Ends Age 18 (or 19 if attending high school)
Modification Standard 15% Change in Support Amount

Maine Child Support Frequently Asked Questions


At what age does child support end in ME?

Child support in Maine ends when a child turns 18, or 19 if the child is still attending high school full-time. As outlined in 19-A M.R.S. § 1653(12), the obligation terminates upon the child's emancipation by age, unless otherwise agreed upon by the parents or ordered by the court for a child with a disability.

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

If a parent is unemployed or underemployed in Maine, the court may impute potential income to them for child support calculation purposes. Based on 19-A M.R.S. § 2001(5)(D), this potential earning capacity is determined by factors like the parent's work history, qualifications, and prevailing job opportunities in the community.

How do I modify a child support order in ME?

You can modify a child support order in Maine if there is a substantial change in circumstances, with a change that alters the support amount by 15% or more being presumed substantial. Under 19-A M.R.S. § 2009, either parent can file a motion to modify the order by presenting evidence of the changed financial situation.

Does ME child support cover college expenses?

Maine does not require a parent to pay for college expenses as part of a child support order. Support for post-secondary education is voluntary and can be enforced only if the parents have a separate, written agreement to contribute to these costs.

How does ME handle health insurance and childcare costs?

Health insurance premiums and necessary work-related childcare costs are added to the basic child support obligation and are divided between the parents in proportion to their respective incomes. According to 19-A M.R.S. § 2006, these specific expenses are calculated separately and then added to the support worksheet to determine the final order.