Tennessee Child Support Calculator
Calculate child support in Tennessee using the state's official Income Shares Model. Includes custody adjustments, health insurance credits, and childcare deductions.
Tennessee divorces typically cost 46% less than the national average of $12,900.
Child Support in Tennessee
- Formula
- Income Shares Model
- Income cap
- None specified
- Equal parenting presumption
- No
- Property system
- Equitable distribution
Child Support Calculator in Tennessee: What You Should Know
Tennessee uses the Income Shares Model applied to gross income, with guidelines that were substantially updated in 2021. The 2021 update significantly changed how parenting time adjustments work: the adjustment now applies on a continuous basis rather than at fixed thresholds, producing more proportional results across a wide range of parenting time splits. Tennessee's guidelines also include a detailed process for handling extraordinary educational expenses, special needs expenses, and travel costs associated with parenting time. Tennessee has no hard income cap, but courts retain discretion to deviate from the guideline in high-income cases.
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Locked to Tennessee 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 Tennessee - Frequently Asked Questions
How is child support calculated in Tennessee?
Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
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 Tennessee typically require a change of at least 15-20% in the support amount to justify modification.
Does custody arrangement affect child support in Tennessee?
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 Tennessee?
Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
Child support in Tennessee 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.