Maryland Child Support Calculator
Calculate child support in Maryland using the state's official Income Shares Model. Includes custody adjustments, health insurance credits, and childcare deductions.
Maryland divorces typically cost 24% less than the national average of $12,900.
Child Support in Maryland
- Formula
- Income Shares Model
- Income cap
- $15,000/mo
- Equal parenting presumption
- No
- Property system
- Equitable distribution
Child Support Calculator in Maryland: What You Should Know
Maryland uses the Income Shares Model, combining both parents' actual monthly incomes to find the basic support obligation, which is then divided in proportion to each parent's share. Maryland's guideline schedule applies up to a combined monthly income of $15,000; above that figure, the support amount is left to the court's discretion. A 2020 update added a shared-physical-custody calculation that lowers support once a parent reaches enough overnights. Health insurance, childcare, and extraordinary medical expenses are added to the base obligation.
Key point: Maryland's Income Shares guideline applies up to $15,000 in combined monthly income, above which the court sets support at its discretion.
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Locked to Maryland on this page.
Use your gross (before-tax) monthly income. If you are paid annually, divide by 12.
Use their gross (before-tax) monthly income. If they are paid annually, divide by 12.
This estimate is for planning purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult a licensed family law attorney in your state for guidance specific to your situation.
Child Support in Maryland - Frequently Asked Questions
How is child support calculated in Maryland?
Maryland uses the Income Shares Model to calculate child support. Both parents' gross incomes are combined, and each parent's share of the total obligation is proportional to their share of the combined income.
Can child support be modified in Maryland?
Yes. Either parent can request a child support modification if there has been a substantial change in circumstances, such as a significant change in income, change in custody arrangements, or changes in the child's needs. Courts in Maryland typically require a change of at least 15-20% in the support amount to justify modification.
Does custody arrangement affect child support in Maryland?
Yes. Parenting time is a significant factor in child support calculations. When a parent has the children for a substantial portion of time (typically 40% or more overnights per year), child support is adjusted to reflect the additional direct costs that parent bears.
Is there an income cap for child support in Maryland?
Yes. Maryland caps child support calculations at $15,000 per month in combined income. Income above this threshold is not automatically included in the formula, though courts may consider it in high-income cases.
How long does child support last in Maryland?
Child support in Maryland typically continues until the child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever is later. Support may continue longer if the child has a disability or if the parents agree to extend support for college expenses.
This estimate is for planning purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult a licensed family law attorney in your state for guidance specific to your situation.