How does Utah calculate child support?

Utah uses a sole custody worksheet and a joint custody worksheet, both based on the Income Shares Model. The calculation considers: combined adjusted gross monthly income of both parents, number of children, statutory base child support obligation tables, health insurance costs for children, childcare expenses, and the amount of time each parent has with the children. The base obligation is divided proportionally based on each parent's income.

What is the difference between sole custody and joint custody calculations in Utah?

Utah uses different worksheets depending on parenting time. Sole custody worksheet applies when one parent has the child more than 225 overnights per year (approximately 61% or more of the time). Joint custody worksheet applies when each parent has at least 111 overnights per year (approximately 30% or more). The joint custody worksheet accounts for both parents' direct expenses during their time with the children.

What income counts for Utah child support calculations?

Utah uses adjusted gross income, which includes: wages, salaries, commissions, bonuses, overtime, self-employment income, pensions, retirement benefits, interest and dividends, Social Security benefits (except SSI), unemployment, workers compensation, disability benefits, military pay including allowances, and severance pay. From this, certain deductions are allowed for prior support orders, alimony paid, and other children residing with the parent.

How are health insurance and childcare costs handled in Utah?

In addition to base child support, Utah requires parents to share: health insurance premiums for the children (either parent may be required to provide coverage if available at reasonable cost), work-related childcare expenses (must be necessary and reasonable), and uninsured medical expenses exceeding $250 per child per year. These costs are typically divided in proportion to each parent's income percentage.

Can Utah child support be adjusted or deviated?

Yes, courts may deviate from guideline calculations for various reasons: extended visitation reducing the obligor's support by up to 50%; children from other relationships supported by a parent; substantial income from child's own assets; extraordinary medical expenses; substantial disparity in parenting time but not meeting joint custody threshold; or other relevant factors. Deviations require court approval and written findings explaining the reasons.

Finance

Utah Child Support Calculator

Calculate estimated child support payments for Utah families.

Monthly Gross Income

Parent 1 ($)

Parent 2 ($)

Custody Details

Number of Children

Parent 1 Overnights>110 triggers Joint Custody worksheet

Enter details to calculate.

How to Use This Calculator

Enter Both Parents' Income

Input the gross monthly income for both parents. Use actual monthly income or divide annual income by 12. Include all sources: wages, self-employment, bonuses, unemployment, pensions, etc. The calculator will compute adjusted gross income and each parent's proportional share. **Disclaimer: This tool provides estimates only and is not legal advice.**

Choose Custody Arrangement

Select whether this is a sole custody or joint custody situation. In Utah, sole custody applies when one parent has 225+ overnights annually with the children, while joint custody applies when each parent has at least 111 overnights. This selection determines which worksheet and calculation method to use.

Add Children and Additional Expenses

Enter the number of children covered by this order, monthly health insurance premiums paid for the children, and work-related childcare expenses. These amounts will be factored into the total support obligation and divided proportionally between parents.

Calculate Support Obligation

Review the estimated child support amount. The calculator shows the monthly base support obligation plus additional amounts for health insurance and childcare, divided according to each parent's income percentage. Actual court orders may differ based on deviations and specific circumstances. **Consult a Utah family law attorney for advice on your specific situation.**