New York Child Support Calculator

How NY Child Support is Calculated

New York looks at both your and the other parent's income to see how much you earn together. The state then uses a set percentage of that combined income, based on the number of children you share, to determine a total support amount. Your final responsibility is your percentage share of that total.

Understanding New York's Shared Custody Rules

New York's guidelines primarily focus on income, not parenting time. The parent with less overnight time is typically considered the 'non-custodial parent' and pays support. In a 50/50 custody arrangement, the higher-earning parent is usually designated to pay support to the lower-earning parent.

Common Questions About NY Child Support

At what age does child support end in NY?

In New York, child support obligations generally continue until the child reaches the age of 21. Unlike many other states, there is no specific exception for finishing high school, as the age of termination is already past the typical age of graduation.

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

If a parent is unemployed, the court will examine the reason. If they are voluntarily unemployed or underemployed, the court can 'impute' income based on their past earnings or potential. If unemployment is involuntary, support may be based on unemployment benefits. A minimum order of $25-$50 per month may be set if income is below the state's Self-Support Reserve.

How do I modify a child support order in NY?

You can request to modify a child support order in New York under three conditions: if three years have passed since the order was entered or last modified; if either parent's gross income has changed by 15% or more; or if there has been another substantial change in circumstances.

Does NY child support cover college expenses?

Basic child support does not automatically cover college expenses. However, a New York court has the discretion to order parents to contribute to a child's college or vocational school costs until they are 21. This is decided on a case-by-case basis, considering the parents' financial resources and other relevant factors.

How does NY handle health insurance and childcare costs?

In New York, health insurance premiums and reasonable childcare costs (needed for a parent to work or attend school) are considered mandatory 'add-ons'. These expenses are calculated separately from the basic child support obligation and are divided between the parents pro-rata, based on their percentage of the combined parental income.