Virginia Child Support Calculator

How Virginia Calculates Child Support

Virginia's courts believe children should receive the same level of financial support as if you and the other parent were living together. The state combines both of your gross incomes, determines a total support amount from a state table, and then divides that amount between you based on your percentage of the combined income.

Understanding Virginia's Shared Custody Rules

When your child spends at least 91 days per year with each parent, Virginia applies a special shared custody formula. This calculation acknowledges the costs of maintaining two separate households for the child and adjusts the final support obligation based on the percentage of time the child spends with each of you.

VA Child Support FAQs

At what age does child support end in VA?

In Virginia, child support typically ends when a child turns 18. However, if the child is still a full-time high school student, unmarried, and living with a parent, support continues until they graduate or reach age 19, whichever happens first.

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

If a parent is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed, a judge can 'impute' income, calculating support based on their potential earnings. If the unemployment is involuntary, support may be based on unemployment benefits or the parent's ability to earn at least minimum wage.

How do I modify a child support order in VA?

You can request a modification if there has been a 'material change in circumstances,' such as a significant income change, a change in custody, or different needs of the child. A change is generally presumed to be material if the guideline amount changes by 25% or more.

Does VA child support cover college expenses?

No, Virginia law does not empower courts to order a parent to pay for college tuition or expenses after the child support obligation has terminated. Parents can, however, voluntarily agree to cover college costs in a legally binding settlement agreement.

How does VA handle health insurance and childcare costs?

The costs for the child's health insurance premium and any necessary work-related childcare are added to the basic child support obligation. These expenses are then divided between the parents in proportion to their share of the combined monthly gross income.