Income Proportionality Chart
This chart visualizes the percentage of the total income contributed by each parent.
A) What is the Virginia Child Support Calculator?
The Virginia Child Support Calculator is a tool designed to estimate the financial obligations of parents based on the "Income Shares Model." This model, codified in Virginia Code § 20-108.2, operates on the principle that a child should receive the same proportion of parental income that they would have received if the parents lived together.
In the Commonwealth of Virginia, child support is not a matter of discretion but is governed by a strict statutory schedule. Whether you are filing for divorce or seeking an administrative order through the Division of Child Support Enforcement (DCSE), these guidelines serve as the starting point for all support determinations.
B) Formula and Explanation
The calculation follows a specific sequence of steps:
- Combine Gross Incomes: The monthly gross income of both parents is added together.
- Determine Basic Obligation: The total income is matched against the Virginia Statutory Schedule to find the "Basic Child Support Obligation."
- Adjust for Additional Costs: The costs of health insurance premiums for the children and work-related childcare are added to the basic obligation to create the "Total Shared Obligation."
- Pro-Rata Share: Each parent's percentage of the total combined income is calculated.
- Final Obligation: The non-custodial parent's share of the total obligation is their monthly payment.
Note: This calculator uses the "Sole Custody" guidelines. Shared or split custody arrangements involve more complex math based on the number of days spent with each parent.
C) Practical Examples
Example 1: Moderate Income Household
Parent A earns $4,000/month. Parent B earns $2,000/month. They have 1 child. Parent A has custody. Parent B pays for health insurance ($100).
Total Income: $6,000. Basic Obligation: ~$850. Total Obligation: $950. Parent B's share (33.3%): $316.67. Since Parent B already pays the $100 insurance, their final cash payment is adjusted.
Example 2: High Income Household
Parent A earns $10,000/month. Parent B earns $10,000/month. They have 2 children.
Total Income: $20,000. Under Virginia law, for incomes exceeding the schedule, a percentage (approx 12-15%) is applied to the excess. The total obligation would be significantly higher, split 50/50.
D) How to Use the Calculator Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Enter the Gross Monthly Income for both parents. Gross income includes wages, bonuses, social security, and interest before taxes.
- Step 2: Select the number of children involved in the support order.
- Step 3: Input the monthly cost for Health Insurance (specifically the portion covering the children).
- Step 4: Input monthly Childcare Costs necessitated by the employment of the custodial parent.
- Step 5: Select which parent will be making the payments (the non-custodial parent).
E) Key Factors Influencing Support
| Factor | Impact on Support |
|---|---|
| Custody Type | Shared custody (>90 days/year) significantly reduces the transfer payment. |
| Imputed Income | If a parent is voluntarily unemployed, the court may "impute" income based on past earnings. | Support for children from other relationships can be deducted from gross income. |
| Special Needs | Extraordinary medical or educational expenses may justify a "deviation" from the guidelines. |
F) FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Does child support cover college tuition in Virginia?
No. In Virginia, the legal obligation to pay child support typically ends when the child turns 18 or graduates high school (whichever is later, up to age 19).
2. Can I change the amount of child support?
Yes, if there is a "material change in circumstances," such as a 25% change in income or a change in custody.
3. Is gross income before or after taxes?
Virginia uses Gross Income, which is the amount earned before taxes and other deductions are taken out.
4. What if the other parent isn't working?
The court may impute income to them based on their earning capacity, education, and the local job market.
5. Do I have to pay if I have joint custody?
Often yes. Even in 50/50 custody, the higher-earning parent usually pays support to the lower-earning parent to ensure the child has a similar standard of living in both homes.
6. How are childcare costs handled?
Work-related childcare costs are added to the basic obligation and shared proportionally between parents.
7. Does the calculator account for taxes?
No, the Virginia statutory schedule is designed to work with pre-tax (gross) income figures.
8. What is the "Self-Support Reserve"?
Virginia includes a provision to ensure the paying parent retains enough income to meet their own basic needs, which affects very low-income earners.