South Dakota Child Support Calculator

How is Child Support Calculated in South Dakota?

South Dakota calculates child support by combining your and the other parent's monthly net incomes to find a basic support obligation on a state schedule. Governed by South Dakota Codified Law (SDCL) 25-7, this total amount is then divided between you based on your percentage share of the combined income.

Understanding SD's Shared Parenting & Custody Rules

South Dakota law adjusts child support for shared parenting arrangements where a child spends 180 or more overnights per year with each parent. Under SDCL 25-7-6.27, when this threshold is met, the basic support obligation is increased by 50%, and a cross-credit formula is applied to account for the time each parent cares for the child, which typically reduces the final support amount.

Calculate Your Support

✓ Verified for 2026 Guidelines • Reviewed October 2026 by Harmoney

South Dakota Child Support Guidelines at a Glance

Guideline Model Income Shares Model
Governing Legal Authority SDCL 25-7
Shared Custody Threshold 180 Overnights
Age Support Ends Age 18 (or 19 if in High School)
Modification Standard Substantial Change in Circumstances

South Dakota Child Support FAQs


At what age does child support end in SD?

Child support in South Dakota ends when the child turns 18, or 19 if they are still a full-time high school student. This is established under South Dakota Codified Law (SDCL) § 25-5-18.1.

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

A South Dakota court may impute income to a parent who is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed based on their earning capacity. According to SDCL § 25-7-6.5, this means support is calculated using what the parent could be earning based on their work history, qualifications, and local job opportunities.

How do I modify a child support order in SD?

You can modify a child support order in South Dakota by proving a substantial and material change in circumstances has occurred since the last order was entered. This standard, outlined in SDCL § 25-7-6.13, is required before a court will recalculate the support obligation.

Does SD child support cover college expenses?

No, South Dakota law does not require parents to pay for college or post-secondary education expenses. Support for college can be enforced only if the parents voluntarily agree to it in a legally binding document, such as a divorce decree or settlement agreement.

How does SD 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 incomes. As mandated by SDCL § 25-7-6.16, these are considered additional, mandatory expenses on top of the base support amount.