North Carolina Child Support Calculator
Calculate child support in North Carolina using the state's official Income Shares Model. Includes custody adjustments, health insurance credits, and childcare deductions.
North Carolina divorces typically cost 40% less than the national average of $12,900.
Child Support in North Carolina
- Formula
- Income Shares Model
- Income cap
- None specified
- Equal parenting presumption
- No
- Property system
- Equitable distribution
Child Support Calculator in North Carolina: What You Should Know
North Carolina uses the Income Shares Model with gross income as the base. North Carolina's guidelines were updated in 2019 and include separate worksheets for primary custody (Worksheet A), shared custody where one parent has 123 or more overnights (Worksheet B), and split custody where each parent has primary custody of at least one child (Worksheet C). The shared custody worksheet (Worksheet B) produces lower support amounts than the primary custody worksheet for the same incomes, reflecting the direct costs each parent bears when children spend substantial time in both homes.
Key point: North Carolina's Worksheet B applies when the non-custodial parent has 123 or more overnights per year, roughly 34 percent of the time. This threshold is lower than the 40 percent threshold used in many other states.
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Locked to North Carolina 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 North Carolina - Frequently Asked Questions
How is child support calculated in North Carolina?
North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
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 North Carolina typically require a change of at least 15-20% in the support amount to justify modification.
Does custody arrangement affect child support in North Carolina?
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 North Carolina?
North Carolina does not set a specific income cap in its child support formula. However, courts have discretion to deviate from the guideline amount in cases with very high incomes.
How long does child support last in North Carolina?
Child support in North Carolina 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.