North Dakota Child Support Calculator

How ND Calculates Child Support

Imagine child support is like a slice of pizza. In North Dakota, the court looks at the non-custodial parent's income (the whole pizza) and takes a set percentage (a slice) based on how many children you have. This makes the calculation very direct and predictable.

Understanding North Dakota's Shared Custody Rules

When you have shared or 50/50 custody, which North Dakota calls 'equal residential responsibility,' the calculation changes. The court calculates what each of you would owe the other if you were the non-custodial parent. The parent with the higher income then pays the difference to the parent with the lower income, ensuring both contribute fairly.

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North Dakota Child Support FAQs


At what age does child support end in ND?

In North Dakota, child support typically ends when a child turns 18. However, if the child is still attending high school full-time, the support obligation continues until the child graduates or turns 19, whichever comes first.



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

If a parent is unemployed or underemployed without a good reason, the court can 'impute' income. This means support is calculated based on what the parent *should* be earning, considering their work history, skills, and local job opportunities. A parent cannot avoid their support obligation by voluntarily quitting a job.



How do I modify a child support order in ND?

You can request a modification if there has been a 'material change in circumstances.' In North Dakota, a change in the parent's income that would alter the child support amount by at least 25% (either up or down) is automatically considered a material change that justifies a review.



Does ND child support cover college expenses?

No, North Dakota's child support guidelines do not require parents to pay for a child's college or other post-secondary education expenses. The legal obligation ends at age 18 or 19, as specified by law, unless parents have a separate, written agreement to contribute to college costs.



How does ND handle health insurance and childcare costs?

These costs are handled separately from the basic support percentage. The court will order one or both parents to provide health insurance. The costs for insurance premiums and necessary work-related childcare are typically added to the basic support amount and divided between the parents based on their respective incomes.