Estimated Calculation Breakdown
How to Use Our Tool
- Enter Incomes: Input the gross monthly income (before taxes) for both Parent A and Parent B.
- Child Details: Specify the number of children shared by both parents.
- Custody Arrangement: Select "Standard" if one parent has primary custody, or "Shared" if parenting time is more evenly split (each parent has over 92 overnights/year).
- Add Expenses: If applicable, enter total monthly costs for work-related child care and the children's portion of health insurance premiums.
- Calculate: Click the "Calculate Support" button to see a detailed breakdown and the estimated monthly payment.
Features & Benefits
Key Features
- Based on 2024 Idaho Guidelines
- Standard & Shared Custody Options
- Accounts for Child Care & Health Insurance
- Includes Federal Child Tax Credit Adjustment
- Detailed Results Breakdown
- Clean, Printable Summary
Your Benefits
- Fast & Free: Get an instant estimate without any cost or sign-up.
- User-Friendly: A simple, guided interface makes it easy for anyone to use.
- Informative: Understand the factors that contribute to the final amount.
- Accessible Anywhere: Fully responsive design works on your phone, tablet, or desktop.
Understanding the Calculation
Idaho uses the Income Shares Model to determine child support. The model is based on the principle that children should receive the same proportion of parental income that they would have received if the parents lived together. Our calculator simulates this by performing four key steps, ending with prorating the total obligation between parents based on their share of the combined income.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is "Gross Monthly Income"?
It's your total income from all sources before any taxes or deductions are taken out. This includes wages, salaries, bonuses, commissions, self-employment income, rental income, and more.
Is this calculation legally binding?
No. This tool provides an estimate for informational purposes only. A final, legally binding child support order can only be issued by a court, which may consider additional factors not included here.
What is the difference between Standard and Shared Custody?
In Idaho, custody is considered "Shared" if each parent has the children for more than 25% of the overnights in a year (which is more than 92 overnights). If one parent has the children for more than 75% of the time, it's typically considered "Standard" or sole physical custody for the purposes of the calculation.
What if my income changes after the order is set?
Child support orders can be modified. In Idaho, you typically need to show a "substantial and material change in circumstances" since the last order was issued. A significant increase or decrease in income for either parent could qualify. You would need to file a petition to modify the order with the court.
Does this calculator include expenses like school activities or braces?
The base calculation is intended to cover standard costs like housing, food, and clothing. "Extraordinary" expenses, such as private school tuition, major medical/dental costs (like braces), or specific extracurricular activities, are often addressed separately in the court order. They may be divided between the parents based on their income share or another agreed-upon method.
Is my new spouse's income included in the calculation?
Generally, no. The legal obligation to support a child rests with the child's parents. A new spouse's or partner's income is typically not included in the gross income for the child support calculation.
How is the child support payment actually made?
Payments can be made in several ways. The most common method is through wage withholding, where the amount is automatically deducted from the paying parent's paycheck. Other methods include direct payments between parents or payments made through the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare's Child Support Services.
