Wisconsin Child Support Calculator
Calculate child support in Wisconsin using the state's official Percentage of Income Model. Includes custody adjustments, health insurance credits, and childcare deductions.
Wisconsin divorces typically cost 40% less than the national average of $12,900.
Child Support in Wisconsin
- Formula
- Percentage of Income Model
- Income cap
- None specified
- Equal parenting presumption
- No
- Property system
- Community property
Child Support Calculator in Wisconsin: What You Should Know
Wisconsin uses the Percentage of Income Standard, applying a percentage of the paying parent's gross income rather than combining both parents' earnings. The base rates are 17 percent for one child, 25 percent for two, 29 percent for three, 31 percent for four, and 34 percent for five or more. Wisconsin has separate rules for shared placement (when each parent has the children at least 25 percent of the time), split placement, and high- or low-income payers that adjust these base percentages. Because the standard looks mainly at the paying parent's income, it is straightforward to estimate in primary-placement cases.
Key point: Wisconsin applies the Percentage of Income Standard: 17 percent of the paying parent's gross income for one child, 25 percent for two, and 29 percent for three.
Tell us the basics
Locked to Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin - Frequently Asked Questions
How is child support calculated in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin uses the Percentage of Income Model to calculate child support. Child support is calculated as a fixed percentage of the paying parent's gross income, ranging from 17% for one child upward for additional children.
Can child support be modified in Wisconsin?
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 Wisconsin typically require a change of at least 15-20% in the support amount to justify modification.
Does custody arrangement affect child support in Wisconsin?
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 Wisconsin?
Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin?
Child support in Wisconsin 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.