Washington Child Support Calculator
Calculate child support in Washington using the state's official Income Shares Model. Includes custody adjustments, health insurance credits, and childcare deductions.
Washington divorces typically cost 19% less than the national average of $12,900.
Child Support in Washington
- Formula
- Income Shares Model
- Income cap
- $12,500/mo
- Equal parenting presumption
- No
- Property system
- Community property
Child Support Calculator in Washington: What You Should Know
Washington uses the Income Shares Model applied to combined monthly net income, with a cap at approximately $12,500 per month combined. Washington's Economic Table (the guideline schedule) covers income levels from $1,000 to $12,500 per month combined. Washington is notable for its detailed parenting time adjustment: the standard adjustment begins at 25 percent residential time and increases progressively as residential time increases, producing proportionally larger reductions for parents with substantial parenting time. Washington also requires parents to set aside funds for post-secondary education as part of the child support order.
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Locked to Washington 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 Washington - Frequently Asked Questions
How is child support calculated in Washington?
Washington 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 Washington?
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 Washington typically require a change of at least 15-20% in the support amount to justify modification.
Does custody arrangement affect child support in Washington?
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 Washington?
Yes. Washington caps child support calculations at $12,500 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 Washington?
Child support in Washington 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.