Number of Children (count) Select number of children 1 child 2 children 3 children 4 children 5 children 6 children Select the total number of children involved

Noncustodial Parent (selection) Select noncustodial parent Parent A Parent B Select which parent will pay child support

Gross Monthly Income Parent A (USD per month) Enter Parent A's total gross monthly income before taxes

Gross Monthly Income Parent B (USD per month) Enter Parent B's total gross monthly income before taxes

Monthly Health Insurance Premium for Children (USD per month) Enter monthly cost for children's health insurance only

Monthly Work-Related Childcare Costs (USD per month) Enter monthly childcare expenses due to employment

Quick Examples:

Moderate-Income Two Children Lower-Income Single Child

Calculate Clear

This calculator provides general information only. It is not intended to provide legal advice. Consult an attorney for legal matters. Child support calculations may vary based on individual circumstances and court discretion.

What Is Presumptive Monthly Child Support Obligation

The presumptive monthly child support obligation is the amount a noncustodial parent may be required to pay each month for their children. Georgia uses an Income Shares Model, which means the support amount is based on both parents' incomes combined. The idea is that children should receive the same portion of parental income they would have if the parents lived together. This number serves as a starting point for courts when setting child support orders.

How Presumptive Monthly Child Support Obligation Is Calculated

Formula

The calculation begins by adding both parents' gross monthly incomes to find the combined total. This combined income is used to look up the basic child support obligation in Georgia's official schedule table. Each parent's share is then calculated by dividing their individual income by the combined total. The basic obligation is adjusted by adding health insurance and childcare costs. Finally, the noncustodial parent's obligation equals their percentage share multiplied by the adjusted total. This method ensures both parents contribute proportionally to their children's needs.

Why Presumptive Monthly Child Support Obligation Matters

Understanding the estimated child support amount helps parents plan financially during and after separation or divorce. Knowing this number may help with budgeting, negotiations, and setting realistic expectations for both parents.

Why Child Support Calculation Is Important for Financial Planning

Without an estimate of child support obligations, parents may face unexpected financial strain. The paying parent might not budget properly for monthly payments, while the receiving parent might not plan for their share of expenses. This can lead to missed payments, legal disputes, and stress for the entire family. Getting an early estimate may help both parties prepare and potentially avoid conflict.

For Custodial Parents

Custodial parents may use this estimate to understand what financial support they might expect. This helps with planning for children's daily needs, school expenses, and activities. It also provides a starting point for discussions about additional costs that may arise as children grow.

For Noncustodial Parents

Noncustodial parents benefit from knowing their potential obligation before court proceedings. This allows time to adjust budgets, plan for automatic payments, and understand how the amount was determined. Being prepared may reduce stress and help maintain a cooperative relationship with the other parent.

Georgia Child Support vs Other States

Georgia uses the Income Shares Model, which most states also use. However, each state has its own schedule of basic support amounts. Georgia's specific values differ from neighboring states like Florida or Alabama. If you recently moved to Georgia or have a case across state lines, the calculation may differ from what you expect. Courts apply Georgia's guidelines for Georgia cases.

Example Calculation

Consider a family with two children where Parent A earns $4,000 per month and Parent B earns $3,000 per month. The children's health insurance costs $200 monthly, and work-related childcare is $500 per month. Parent A is the noncustodial parent who will make payments.

First, the calculator adds both incomes for a combined total of $7,000. Using Georgia's schedule, the basic support obligation for two children at this income level is approximately $1,700. Adding health insurance ($200) and childcare ($500) gives an adjusted obligation of $2,400. Parent A earns 57.14% of the combined income ($4,000 divided by $7,000), so their monthly obligation equals $2,400 times 57.14%.

Result: Parent A's presumptive monthly child support obligation is approximately $1,371.

This means Parent A may expect to pay around $1,371 per month in child support. The actual court order could differ based on factors like parenting time adjustments, special medical needs, or other deviations the court considers appropriate. This estimate serves as a helpful starting point for planning and discussion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this Georgia Child Support Calculator for?

This calculator is for Georgia residents who are separating, divorcing, or need to estimate child support obligations. It may help parents, attorneys, and mediators understand potential support amounts. Anyone seeking an estimate of Georgia child support may find this tool useful as a starting point.

How accurate is this child support estimate?

This calculator provides an estimate based on Georgia's Income Shares Model. The actual court-ordered amount may differ due to deviations, parenting time adjustments, and other factors Georgia law allows courts to consider. This estimate may serve as a reasonable starting point but should not replace professional legal guidance.

What is the Georgia Income Shares Model?

Georgia's Income Shares Model calculates child support based on the idea that children should receive the same proportion of parental income they would have if parents lived together. Both parents' incomes are combined, and each parent's share of support is proportional to their share of total income.

Can I use this calculator if I have shared custody?

Shared custody or parenting time arrangements may affect the final child support amount. Georgia law allows for adjustments based on parenting time. This calculator provides the basic presumptive amount, but actual support with shared custody may differ. Consult an attorney for guidance specific to your custody arrangement.

What if our combined income is above the schedule maximum?

When combined income exceeds Georgia's schedule maximum, courts typically use the highest schedule amount and apply pro rata shares to that figure. Additional factors may be considered for high-income families. An attorney may help you understand how courts handle these situations.