Florida Child Support Calculator
Estimate the guideline amount under Florida's Income Shares model (§61.30). Based on combined parental income and each parent's share — free, instant, no data stored.
Guideline Estimate
Florida uses the Income Shares model under §61.30. This simplified estimate applies the guideline percentage to combined gross income and allocates the obligation by each parent's share of income. Actual orders include childcare, health insurance, and other adjustments and are set by the court.
How Florida calculates child support
Florida uses the Income Shares model under §61.30. The idea is that the child should receive the same proportion of parental income they would have received if the parents lived together.
- Add both parents' gross monthly incomes to get combined monthly income.
- Multiply by the guideline percentage for the number of children (20% for 1, up to 37% for 6+).
- Allocate the total obligation between the parents in proportion to their incomes.
Florida guideline percentages (approximate)
| Children | Guideline percentage |
|---|---|
| 1 | 20% |
| 2 | 25% |
| 3 | 29% |
| 4 | 32% |
| 5 | 35% |
| 6 or more | 37% |
What counts as gross income in Florida?
Gross income includes salary, wages, bonuses, commissions, self-employment income, disability benefits, workers' compensation, unemployment benefits, pension payments, social security benefits, rental income, and other sources. Certain allowable deductions (such as taxes already paid for the benefit of another household) may apply in the full calculation.
Healthcare and childcare add-ons
In addition to the basic obligation, the court typically allocates the cost of the child's health insurance and work-related childcare between the parents in proportion to their incomes. Extraordinary medical, educational, or dental expenses may also be added. This calculator shows the basic obligation only.
Frequently asked questions
How long does child support last in Florida? Generally until the child turns 18, or until 19 if the child is still in high school and expected to graduate before 19, unless the court orders otherwise.
Can the amount be deviated from? Yes. The court may deviate from the guideline amount based on factors such as the child's needs, each parent's financial ability, and the parenting-time schedule, and must state reasons in writing.
Does shared parenting time change the amount? Yes. Substantial shared parenting time (each parent having the child at least 20% of overnights) can affect the calculation under §61.30. This is a simplified estimate.