Mississippi Child Support Calculator

How MS Child Support is Calculated

In Mississippi, your child support is calculated by taking a specific percentage of your adjusted gross income, with the percentage determined by how many children you have. This straightforward 'Percentage of Obligor Income' model is governed by Miss. Code Ann. § 43-19-101 and applies a flat rate, such as 14% for one child, to the non-custodial parent's income.

Deviating from Mississippi's Guideline Percentages

Mississippi courts can adjust the standard child support amount when parents share joint physical custody. While Miss. Code Ann. § 43-19-101 does not set a specific overnight threshold, a judge has the discretion to deviate from the guidelines if the non-custodial parent has the child for a 'significant period of time,' which affects the child-rearing expenses they incur.

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✓ Verified for 2026 Guidelines • Reviewed October 2026 by Harmoney

Mississippi Child Support Guidelines at a Glance

Guideline Model Percentage of Obligor Income
Governing Legal Authority Miss. Code Ann. § 43-19-101
Shared Custody Threshold Substantial Equal Time
Age Support Ends Age 21 (or earlier if emancipated)
Modification Standard Material Change in Circumstances

Frequently Asked Questions About MS Child Support


At what age does child support end in MS?

Child support in Mississippi generally ends when the child reaches age 21. Under Miss. Code Ann. § 93-11-65, the duty of support terminates at age twenty-one, though it can end sooner if the child marries, joins the military, or is otherwise legally emancipated by a court.

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

Courts will impute income to an unemployed or underemployed parent if they are found to be voluntarily jobless or working below their capacity. This means support will be calculated based on the parent's earning potential, considering their work history, education, and job opportunities in the area, to ensure the child's needs are met.

How do I modify a child support order in MS?

A child support order can be modified upon showing a material or substantial change in circumstances of one or more of the interested parties. This is a legal standard that requires demonstrating a significant, unforeseen change since the last order was entered, such as a major increase or decrease in income or a change in the child's needs.

Does MS child support cover college expenses?

No, Mississippi law does not mandate that a parent must pay for college expenses after a child reaches the age of majority at 21. While parents can voluntarily agree to cover college costs in a binding settlement agreement, a court cannot order them to do so.

How does MS handle health insurance and childcare costs?

Health insurance premiums and work-related childcare costs are typically addressed separately from the basic child support obligation and can be ordered by the court. These additional expenses may be divided between the parents in proportion to their incomes or handled as a reason for the judge to deviate from the standard guideline amount under Miss. Code Ann. § 43-19-103.