New Mexico Child Support Calculator

How NM Child Support is Calculated

New Mexico pretends you and the other parent still live together by combining both of your gross incomes. The state uses that combined total to find a basic support amount on a chart, then divides that obligation between you based on your percentage share of the income.

Understanding New Mexico's Shared Custody Rules

When each parent has the children for at least 35% of the year (128 overnights), the court uses a special shared custody formula. This calculation increases the basic support amount and then credits each of you for the time you spend with the children, which often results in a different final support payment.

New Mexico Child Support: Frequently Asked Questions

At what age does child support end in NM?

In New Mexico, child support typically ends when a child turns 18. However, if the child is still unmarried and attending high school full-time, support will continue until they graduate or turn 19, whichever occurs first.

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

If a parent is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed, the court can 'impute' income, calculating support based on what that parent could potentially earn. This is determined by their work history, skills, education, 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 NM?

To modify a child support order, you must file a motion with the court and prove a 'substantial change in circumstances.' In New Mexico, a substantial change is generally presumed if applying the current guidelines would change the existing support amount by 20% or more.

Does NM child support cover college expenses?

No, the legal obligation for child support in New Mexico ends at age 18 or 19 if the child is still in high school. Parents are not legally required to pay for college expenses, though they can create a separate, enforceable agreement to do so.

How does NM handle health insurance and childcare costs?

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