Wisconsin Child Support Calculator

How Wisconsin Calculates Child Support

Wisconsin keeps child support simple. The court looks at the paying parent's gross income and how many children you share. A set percentage (like 17% for one child) is then applied to that income to get the base support amount.

Understanding WI's Shared Custody Rules

If you have shared placement where each parent has the child at least 25% of the time (92 overnights a year), the standard calculation changes. In these cases, the court considers both parents' incomes and the exact number of overnights to determine the final support amount, which adjusts the standard percentage.

Wisconsin Child Support FAQs

At what age does child support end in WI?

In Wisconsin, child support obligations generally continue until a child turns 18. However, if the child is still enrolled in high school or pursuing a similar program, support can be extended until they graduate or turn 19, whichever occurs first.

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

If a parent is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed, the court can impute income, calculating support based on what they *could* be earning. If unemployment is involuntary, support may be based on unemployment benefits or other assets, or a minimum order might be set.

How do I modify a child support order in WI?

You can request a modification if there's been a 'substantial change in circumstances.' Wisconsin law presumes this change exists if applying the guidelines to current incomes results in an amount that is at least 15% and $50 per month different from the existing order.

Does WI child support cover college expenses?

No, Wisconsin courts do not have the authority to order a parent to pay for a child's college or post-secondary education expenses. Any agreement to contribute to college costs must be made voluntarily between the parents as a separate contract.

How does WI handle health insurance and childcare costs?

Health insurance and work-related childcare costs are handled separately from the base child support amount. The court will order one or both parents to provide health insurance if available at a reasonable cost, and these expenses are typically split between the parents based on their financial situations.