South Carolina Child Support Calculator
Calculate child support in South Carolina using the state's official Income Shares Model. Includes custody adjustments, health insurance credits, and childcare deductions.
South Carolina divorces typically cost 46% less than the national average of $12,900.
Child Support in South Carolina
- Formula
- Income Shares Model
- Income cap
- None specified
- Equal parenting presumption
- No
- Property system
- Equitable distribution
Child Support Calculator in South Carolina: What You Should Know
South Carolina uses the Income Shares Model under guidelines issued by the Department of Social Services. Both parents' gross monthly incomes are combined, the basic obligation comes from a schedule, and each parent covers a proportional share. South Carolina has a shared-custody worksheet that applies once each parent has the children for at least 110 overnights a year, which lowers the standard figure. Health insurance and work-related childcare are added to the base obligation, and there is no flat income cap.
Key point: South Carolina uses the Income Shares Model and applies a shared-custody worksheet once each parent reaches at least 110 overnights per year.
Tell us the basics
Locked to South 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 South Carolina - Frequently Asked Questions
How is child support calculated in South Carolina?
South 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 South 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 South Carolina typically require a change of at least 15-20% in the support amount to justify modification.
Does custody arrangement affect child support in South 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 South Carolina?
South 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 South Carolina?
Child support in South 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.