How is child support calculated in Indiana?

Indiana uses the Income Shares Model, which estimates the amount parents would spend on their children if living together, then divides this amount proportionally based on each parent's income. The calculation considers: combined gross income of both parents, number of children, parenting time allocation, health insurance costs, and childcare expenses. Indiana provides an official child support guideline worksheet that courts use.

What income is included in Indiana child support calculations?

Indiana includes most income sources: wages and salaries, overtime and bonuses, self-employment income, commissions, pensions and retirement benefits, Social Security benefits, unemployment and workers compensation, rental income, interest and dividends, and spousal maintenance from other relationships. Some exclusions apply for means-tested public assistance and benefits for other children.

How does parenting time affect child support in Indiana?

Indiana adjusts child support based on parenting time. If the non-custodial parent has the child for at least 92 overnights per year (approximately 25% of the time), a parenting time credit applies, reducing the support obligation. The more time the paying parent has with the child, the lower the support payment, as they're directly providing care and expenses during that time.

Are health insurance and childcare added to basic child support in Indiana?

Yes, in addition to basic child support, parents share the costs of: health insurance premiums for the children, unreimbursed medical expenses (typically amounts over $100 per child per year), and work-related childcare expenses. These additional expenses are divided proportionally based on each parent's percentage of the combined income.

Can Indiana child support be modified?

Yes, child support can be modified if there's a substantial and continuing change in circumstances, such as: significant income changes for either parent, changes in parenting time, changes in health insurance or childcare costs, or changes in the number of children supported. Generally, a change of at least 20% in the calculated support amount is needed for modification. You must petition the court for modification.

Finance

Indiana Child Support Calculator

Estimate weekly child support payments based on Indiana's Income Shares Model.

Weekly Gross Income

Parent 1 Income ($)

Parent 2 Income ($)

Expenses & Children

Number of Children

Weekly Health Ins. ($)

Weekly Childcare ($)

* This calculator provides an estimate based on the Income Shares Model. Actual support amounts are determined by the court and may vary based on specific circumstances, parenting time credit, and other factors.

Enter income and expense details to see the estimated support obligation.

How to Use This Calculator

Enter Both Parents' Income Information

Input the weekly or monthly gross income (before taxes) for both the custodial parent and non-custodial parent. Include all income sources: wages, self-employment, bonuses, unemployment, etc. The calculator will determine each parent's percentage of the combined income. **Legal Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates only and is not a substitute for legal advice or official court calculations.**

Specify Children and Parenting Time

Enter the number of children covered by this support order and the number of overnights per year the non-custodial parent has with the children. Parenting time of 92+ overnights may qualify for a credit that reduces support obligations.

Add Additional Expenses

Include the monthly costs for children's health insurance premiums and work-related childcare expenses. These amounts are added to the basic support obligation and divided proportionally between parents based on their income percentages.

Review Estimated Support Amount

The calculator will estimate the weekly child support payment. Remember this is an estimate - actual court orders may differ based on specific circumstances, deviations, and judicial discretion. Consult with an Indiana family law attorney for binding advice. **This tool does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon for legal decisions.**