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Child Support Worksheet Guide: Understanding Your Financial Obligations for Your Children

A comprehensive guide to understanding child support worksheets, how they calculate financial obligations, and what parents need to know during divorce or separation proceedings.

Introduction

A Child Support Worksheet is a legal document used to calculate the amount of financial support that a non-custodial parent must provide for their children following a divorce or separation. This worksheet takes into account both parents' incomes, the number of children involved, and various expenses related to raising children such as healthcare, education, and childcare costs. The purpose of this document is to ensure that children receive adequate financial support from both parents, regardless of which household they primarily reside in. Understanding how child support is calculated is crucial for both parents to ensure fair financial arrangements that prioritize the well-being of their children.

Key Things to Know

  1. 1

    Child support is calculated based on a formula that considers both parents' incomes, not just the higher-earning parent's income.

  2. 2

    Business owners should be prepared for additional scrutiny of their finances, as courts will look beyond reported salary to determine actual income available for support.

  3. 3

    Child support is separate from the division of marital assets in divorce proceedings, though investment income from assets will be considered in support calculations.

  4. 4

    The worksheet calculations create a presumptive amount of support, but courts can deviate from this amount if there are good reasons to do so.

  5. 5

    Child support generally continues until children reach the age of majority (18 or 21, depending on your state) or graduate from high school, whichever occurs later.

  6. 6

    In high-asset families, child support may include provisions for expenses beyond basic needs, such as private education, extracurricular activities, and future college expenses.

  7. 7

    Failing to accurately complete the worksheet with full financial disclosure can result in penalties, including potential contempt of court charges.

  8. 8

    Child support is modifiable if circumstances change substantially, so maintaining accurate financial records is important for potential future modifications.

Key Decisions

Parents with Minor Children

Long-Term Marriage Partners with Significant Assets

Business Owners

Long-term Married Couples with Significant Assets

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CHILD SUPPORT WORKSHEET

CASE INFORMATION

Court Case Number: [CASE NUMBER]
Jurisdiction: [JURISDICTION]
Date of Filing: [FILING DATE]
Date of Worksheet Completion: [COMPLETION DATE]

I. BASIC INFORMATION

A. PARENTS' INFORMATION

Petitioner/Parent A:

  • Full Legal Name: [PARENT A FULL LEGAL NAME]
  • Physical Address: [PARENT A ADDRESS]
  • Mailing Address (if different): [PARENT A MAILING ADDRESS]
  • Phone Number: [PARENT A PHONE]
  • Email Address: [PARENT A EMAIL]
  • Social Security Number: [PARENT A SSN] (Last 4 digits: XXX-XX-[LAST 4 DIGITS])
  • Date of Birth: [PARENT A DOB]
  • Employer Name: [PARENT A EMPLOYER]
  • Employer Address: [PARENT A EMPLOYER ADDRESS]

Respondent/Parent B:

  • Full Legal Name: [PARENT B FULL LEGAL NAME]
  • Physical Address: [PARENT B ADDRESS]
  • Mailing Address (if different): [PARENT B MAILING ADDRESS]
  • Phone Number: [PARENT B PHONE]
  • Email Address: [PARENT B EMAIL]
  • Social Security Number: [PARENT B SSN] (Last 4 digits: XXX-XX-[LAST 4 DIGITS])
  • Date of Birth: [PARENT B DOB]
  • Employer Name: [PARENT B EMPLOYER]
  • Employer Address: [PARENT B EMPLOYER ADDRESS]

B. CHILDREN'S INFORMATION

Child's Full Legal NameDate of BirthAgeSocial Security Number (Last 4 digits)
[CHILD 1 NAME][CHILD 1 DOB][CHILD 1 AGE]XXX-XX-[CHILD 1 LAST 4 DIGITS]
[CHILD 2 NAME][CHILD 2 DOB][CHILD 2 AGE]XXX-XX-[CHILD 2 LAST 4 DIGITS]
[CHILD 3 NAME][CHILD 3 DOB][CHILD 3 AGE]XXX-XX-[CHILD 3 LAST 4 DIGITS]
[CHILD 4 NAME][CHILD 4 DOB][CHILD 4 AGE]XXX-XX-[CHILD 4 LAST 4 DIGITS]

II. CUSTODY ARRANGEMENT

A. PARENTING TIME DETERMINATION

Parent A Annual Overnights: [PARENT A OVERNIGHTS]
Parent B Annual Overnights: [PARENT B OVERNIGHTS]
Total Annual Overnights: 365 (366 in leap years)

Parent A Percentage of Parenting Time: [PARENT A PERCENTAGE]%
Parent B Percentage of Parenting Time: [PARENT B PERCENTAGE]%

B. CUSTODY CLASSIFICATION

Based on the parenting time allocation above, the custody arrangement is classified as:

  • Sole Physical Custody (one parent has 90% or more of the overnights)
  • Primary Physical Custody (one parent has between 60% and 89% of the overnights)
  • Joint Physical Custody (each parent has at least 40% of the overnights)
  • Split Custody (each parent has primary physical custody of at least one of the children)
  • Other: [SPECIFY OTHER ARRANGEMENT]

Description of Custody Arrangement: [DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CUSTODY ARRANGEMENT]

III. INCOME CALCULATION

A. GROSS INCOME DOCUMENTATION

Parent A Monthly Gross Income

Income SourceMonthly AmountAnnual AmountDocumentation Provided
Wages/Salary$[PARENT A WAGES]$[PARENT A ANNUAL WAGES][ ] Pay stubs [ ] W-2 [ ] Tax returns
Self-Employment$[PARENT A SELF-EMPLOYMENT]$[PARENT A ANNUAL SELF-EMPLOYMENT][ ] Schedule C [ ] P&L Statement [ ] Business tax returns
Commissions/Bonuses$[PARENT A COMMISSIONS]$[PARENT A ANNUAL COMMISSIONS][ ] Pay records [ ] Employment contract [ ] Tax returns
Overtime$[PARENT A OVERTIME]$[PARENT A ANNUAL OVERTIME][ ] Pay stubs [ ] Employer verification
Investment Income$[PARENT A INVESTMENTS]$[PARENT A ANNUAL INVESTMENTS][ ] 1099-DIV/INT [ ] Account statements
Rental Income$[PARENT A RENTAL]$[PARENT A ANNUAL RENTAL][ ] Schedule E [ ] Lease agreements
Retirement/Pension$[PARENT A RETIREMENT]$[PARENT A ANNUAL RETIREMENT][ ] 1099-R [ ] Benefit statements
Social Security$[PARENT A SS]$[PARENT A ANNUAL SS][ ] Benefit statements [ ] 1099-SSA
Disability Benefits$[PARENT A DISABILITY]$[PARENT A ANNUAL DISABILITY][ ] Benefit statements [ ] Award letters
Unemployment$[PARENT A UNEMPLOYMENT]$[PARENT A ANNUAL UNEMPLOYMENT][ ] Benefit statements [ ] 1099-G
Workers' Compensation$[PARENT A WORKERS COMP]$[PARENT A ANNUAL WORKERS COMP][ ] Benefit statements [ ] Award letters
Other Income$[PARENT A OTHER]$[PARENT A ANNUAL OTHER][ ] Documentation provided
TOTAL GROSS INCOME$[PARENT A TOTAL MONTHLY]$[PARENT A TOTAL ANNUAL]

Parent B Monthly Gross Income

Income SourceMonthly AmountAnnual AmountDocumentation Provided
Wages/Salary$[PARENT B WAGES]$[PARENT B ANNUAL WAGES][ ] Pay stubs [ ] W-2 [ ] Tax returns
Self-Employment$[PARENT B SELF-EMPLOYMENT]$[PARENT B ANNUAL SELF-EMPLOYMENT][ ] Schedule C [ ] P&L Statement [ ] Business tax returns
Commissions/Bonuses$[PARENT B COMMISSIONS]$[PARENT B ANNUAL COMMISSIONS][ ] Pay records [ ] Employment contract [ ] Tax returns
Overtime$[PARENT B OVERTIME]$[PARENT B ANNUAL OVERTIME][ ] Pay stubs [ ] Employer verification
Investment Income$[PARENT B INVESTMENTS]$[PARENT B ANNUAL INVESTMENTS][ ] 1099-DIV/INT [ ] Account statements
Rental Income$[PARENT B RENTAL]$[PARENT B ANNUAL RENTAL][ ] Schedule E [ ] Lease agreements
Retirement/Pension$[PARENT B RETIREMENT]$[PARENT B ANNUAL RETIREMENT][ ] 1099-R [ ] Benefit statements
Social Security$[PARENT B SS]$[PARENT B ANNUAL SS][ ] Benefit statements [ ] 1099-SSA
Disability Benefits$[PARENT B DISABILITY]$[PARENT B ANNUAL DISABILITY][ ] Benefit statements [ ] Award letters
Unemployment$[PARENT B UNEMPLOYMENT]$[PARENT B ANNUAL UNEMPLOYMENT][ ] Benefit statements [ ] 1099-G
Workers' Compensation$[PARENT B WORKERS COMP]$[PARENT B ANNUAL WORKERS COMP][ ] Benefit statements [ ] Award letters
Other Income$[PARENT B OTHER]$[PARENT B ANNUAL OTHER][ ] Documentation provided
TOTAL GROSS INCOME$[PARENT B TOTAL MONTHLY]$[PARENT B TOTAL ANNUAL]

B. INCOME VERIFICATION

The following income verification documents have been provided and reviewed:

Parent A:

  • Most recent federal and state tax returns (past [NUMBER] years)
  • W-2 forms for the past [NUMBER] years
  • 1099 forms for the past [NUMBER] years
  • Pay stubs covering the past [NUMBER] months
  • Self-employment business records for the past [NUMBER] years
  • Other: [SPECIFY OTHER DOCUMENTATION]

Parent B:

  • Most recent federal and state tax returns (past [NUMBER] years)
  • W-2 forms for the past [NUMBER] years
  • 1099 forms for the past [NUMBER] years
  • Pay stubs covering the past [NUMBER] months
  • Self-employment business records for the past [NUMBER] years
  • Other: [SPECIFY OTHER DOCUMENTATION]

C. SELF-EMPLOYMENT INCOME CALCULATION

Parent A Self-Employment Income Calculation:

  • Gross receipts/revenue: $[PARENT A GROSS RECEIPTS]
  • Less ordinary and necessary business expenses: $[PARENT A BUSINESS EXPENSES]
  • Plus depreciation, depletion, and amortization: $[PARENT A DEPRECIATION]
  • Plus personal expenses paid by business: $[PARENT A PERSONAL EXPENSES]
  • Less self-employment tax adjustment: $[PARENT A SE TAX ADJUSTMENT]
  • Net Self-Employment Income: $[PARENT A NET SELF-EMPLOYMENT]

Parent B Self-Employment Income Calculation:

  • Gross receipts/revenue: $[PARENT B GROSS RECEIPTS]
  • Less ordinary and necessary business expenses: $[PARENT B BUSINESS EXPENSES]
  • Plus depreciation, depletion, and amortization: $[PARENT B DEPRECIATION]
  • Plus personal expenses paid by business: $[PARENT B PERSONAL EXPENSES]
  • Less self-employment tax adjustment: $[PARENT B SE TAX ADJUSTMENT]
  • Net Self-Employment Income: $[PARENT B NET SELF-EMPLOYMENT]

D. IMPUTED INCOME ASSESSMENT

Parent A:

  • Is Parent A voluntarily unemployed or underemployed? [ ] Yes [ ] No
  • If yes, explain basis for this determination: [EXPLANATION]
  • Parent A's work history: [WORK HISTORY]
  • Parent A's education and qualifications: [EDUCATION/QUALIFICATIONS]
  • Available job opportunities and earning potential: [JOB OPPORTUNITIES]
  • Imputed monthly income amount: $[PARENT A IMPUTED INCOME]
  • Basis for imputed amount: [BASIS FOR IMPUTED AMOUNT]

Parent B:

  • Is Parent B voluntarily unemployed or underemployed? [ ] Yes [ ] No
  • If yes, explain basis for this determination: [EXPLANATION]
  • Parent B's work history: [WORK HISTORY]
  • Parent B's education and qualifications: [EDUCATION/QUALIFICATIONS]
  • Available job opportunities and earning potential: [JOB OPPORTUNITIES]
  • Imputed monthly income amount: $[PARENT B IMPUTED INCOME]
  • Basis for imputed amount: [BASIS FOR IMPUTED AMOUNT]

E. SEASONAL OR FLUCTUATING INCOME

Parent A:

  • Does Parent A have seasonal or fluctuating income? [ ] Yes [ ] No
  • Method used to calculate average income: [METHOD]
  • Period used for averaging: [PERIOD]
  • Explanation of calculation: [EXPLANATION]

Parent B:

  • Does Parent B have seasonal or fluctuating income? [ ] Yes [ ] No
  • Method used to calculate average income: [METHOD]
  • Period used for averaging: [PERIOD]
  • Explanation of calculation: [EXPLANATION]

IV. INCOME ADJUSTMENTS

A. PRE-EXISTING CHILD SUPPORT OBLIGATIONS

Parent A:

  • Monthly amount paid for other children: $[PARENT A OTHER SUPPORT]
  • Court case number(s): [PARENT A CASE NUMBERS]
  • Jurisdiction(s): [PARENT A JURISDICTIONS]
  • Name(s) and age(s) of other children: [PARENT A OTHER CHILDREN]
  • Documentation provided: [ ] Court order [ ] Payment records [ ] Other: [SPECIFY]

Parent B:

  • Monthly amount paid for other children: $[PARENT B OTHER SUPPORT]
  • Court case number(s): [PARENT B CASE NUMBERS]
  • Jurisdiction(s): [PARENT B JURISDICTIONS]
  • Name(s) and age(s) of other children: [PARENT B OTHER CHILDREN]
  • Documentation provided: [ ] Court order [ ] Payment records [ ] Other: [SPECIFY]

B. ALIMONY/SPOUSAL SUPPORT

Parent A:

  • Monthly alimony/spousal support paid: $[PARENT A ALIMONY PAID]
  • Monthly alimony/spousal support received: $[PARENT A ALIMONY RECEIVED]
  • Court case number(s): [PARENT A ALIMONY CASE NUMBERS]
  • Jurisdiction(s): [PARENT A ALIMONY JURISDICTIONS]
  • Documentation provided: [ ] Court order [ ] Payment records [ ] Other: [SPECIFY]

Parent B:

  • Monthly alimony/spousal support paid: $[PARENT B ALIMONY PAID]
  • Monthly alimony/spousal support received: $[PARENT B ALIMONY RECEIVED]
  • Court case number(s): [PARENT B ALIMONY CASE NUMBERS]
  • Jurisdiction(s): [PARENT B ALIMONY JURISDICTIONS]
  • Documentation provided: [ ] Court order [ ] Payment records [ ] Other: [SPECIFY]

C. MANDATORY RETIREMENT CONTRIBUTIONS

Parent A:

  • Monthly mandatory retirement contributions: $[PARENT A RETIREMENT CONTRIB]
  • Employer: [PARENT A RETIREMENT EMPLOYER]
  • Type of plan: [PARENT A RETIREMENT PLAN TYPE]
  • Documentation provided: [ ] Pay stubs [ ] Employer verification [ ] Other: [SPECIFY]

Parent B:

  • Monthly mandatory retirement contributions: $[PARENT B RETIREMENT CONTRIB]
  • Employer: [PARENT B RETIREMENT EMPLOYER]
  • Type of plan: [PARENT B RETIREMENT PLAN TYPE]
  • Documentation provided: [ ] Pay stubs [ ] Employer verification [ ] Other: [SPECIFY]

D. HEALTH INSURANCE PREMIUM COSTS (CHILDREN'S PORTION ONLY)

Parent A:

  • Monthly premium for children only: $[PARENT A CHILDREN HEALTH PREMIUM]
  • Insurance provider: [PARENT A INSURANCE PROVIDER]
  • Policy number: [PARENT A POLICY NUMBER]
  • Calculation method for children's portion: [PARENT A CALCULATION METHOD]
  • Documentation provided: [ ] Insurance statement [ ] Employer verification [ ] Other: [SPECIFY]

Parent B:

  • Monthly premium for children only: $[PARENT B CHILDREN HEALTH PREMIUM]
  • Insurance provider: [PARENT B INSURANCE PROVIDER]
  • Policy number: [PARENT B POLICY NUMBER]
  • Calculation method for children's portion: [PARENT B CALCULATION METHOD]
  • Documentation provided: [ ] Insurance statement [ ] Employer verification [ ] Other: [SPECIFY]

E. UNION DUES AND MANDATORY DEDUCTIONS

Parent A:

  • Monthly union dues: $[PARENT A UNION DUES]
  • Union name: [PARENT A UNION NAME]
  • Other mandatory deductions (specify): $[PARENT A OTHER DEDUCTIONS]
  • Documentation provided: [ ] Pay stubs [ ] Union verification [ ] Other: [SPECIFY]

Parent B:

  • Monthly union dues: $[PARENT B UNION DUES]
  • Union name: [PARENT B UNION NAME]
  • Other mandatory deductions (specify): $[PARENT B OTHER DEDUCTIONS]
  • Documentation provided: [ ] Pay stubs [ ] Union verification [ ] Other: [SPECIFY]

F. SUMMARY OF INCOME ADJUSTMENTS

Adjustment CategoryParent AParent B
Pre-existing Child Support$[PARENT A OTHER SUPPORT]$[PARENT B OTHER SUPPORT]
Alimony/Spousal Support Paid$[PARENT A ALIMONY PAID]$[PARENT B ALIMONY PAID]
Alimony/Spousal Support Received$[PARENT A ALIMONY RECEIVED]$[PARENT B ALIMONY RECEIVED]
Mandatory Retirement Contributions$[PARENT A RETIREMENT CONTRIB]$[PARENT B RETIREMENT CONTRIB]
Health Insurance Premiums (Children)$[PARENT A CHILDREN HEALTH PREMIUM]$[PARENT B CHILDREN HEALTH PREMIUM]
Union Dues and Mandatory Deductions$[PARENT A UNION DUES + OTHER DEDUCTIONS]$[PARENT B UNION DUES + OTHER DEDUCTIONS]
TOTAL ADJUSTMENTS$[PARENT A TOTAL ADJUSTMENTS]$[PARENT B TOTAL ADJUSTMENTS]

G. ADJUSTED MONTHLY INCOME

Income CalculationParent AParent B
Total Monthly Gross Income$[PARENT A TOTAL MONTHLY]$[PARENT B TOTAL MONTHLY]
Total Monthly Adjustments$[PARENT A TOTAL ADJUSTMENTS]$[PARENT B TOTAL ADJUSTMENTS]
ADJUSTED MONTHLY INCOME$[PARENT A ADJUSTED MONTHLY]$[PARENT B ADJUSTED MONTHLY]

V. BASIC SUPPORT CALCULATION

A. COMBINED PARENTAL INCOME

Income ComponentAmount
Parent A Adjusted Monthly Income$[PARENT A ADJUSTED MONTHLY]
Parent B Adjusted Monthly Income$[PARENT B ADJUSTED MONTHLY]
COMBINED ADJUSTED MONTHLY INCOME$[COMBINED ADJUSTED MONTHLY]

B. INCOME SHARES PERCENTAGE

ParentAdjusted Monthly IncomePercentage of Combined Income
Parent A$[PARENT A ADJUSTED MONTHLY][PARENT A INCOME PERCENTAGE]%
Parent B$[PARENT B ADJUSTED MONTHLY][PARENT B INCOME PERCENTAGE]%
TOTAL$[COMBINED ADJUSTED MONTHLY]100%

C. BASIC SUPPORT OBLIGATION

Based on the combined adjusted monthly income of $[COMBINED ADJUSTED MONTHLY] and [NUMBER OF CHILDREN] child(ren), the basic support obligation according to the [JURISDICTION] Child Support Guidelines is:

Basic Monthly Support Obligation: $[BASIC MONTHLY SUPPORT]

D. PER-CHILD CALCULATION

Child's NameAgePercentage of Basic SupportAmount
[CHILD 1 NAME][CHILD 1 AGE][CHILD 1 PERCENTAGE]%$[CHILD 1 AMOUNT]
[CHILD 2 NAME][CHILD 2 AGE][CHILD 2 PERCENTAGE]%$[CHILD 2 AMOUNT]
[CHILD 3 NAME][CHILD 3 AGE][CHILD 3 PERCENTAGE]%$[CHILD 3 AMOUNT]
[CHILD 4 NAME][CHILD 4 AGE][CHILD 4 PERCENTAGE]%$[CHILD 4 AMOUNT]
TOTAL100%$[BASIC MONTHLY SUPPORT]

VI. ADDITIONAL EXPENSES

A. CHILDCARE COSTS

Monthly Work-Related Childcare Expenses:

Child's NameProvider NameMonthly CostDocumentation Provided
[CHILD 1 NAME][PROVIDER 1]$[CHILD 1 CHILDCARE][ ] Receipts [ ] Provider statement [ ] Other
[CHILD 2 NAME][PROVIDER 2]$[CHILD 2 CHILDCARE][ ] Receipts [ ] Provider statement [ ] Other
[CHILD 3 NAME][PROVIDER 3]$[CHILD 3 CHILDCARE][ ] Receipts [ ] Provider statement [ ] Other
[CHILD 4 NAME][PROVIDER 4]$[CHILD 4 CHILDCARE][ ] Receipts [ ] Provider statement [ ] Other
TOTAL MONTHLY CHILDCARE EXPENSES$[TOTAL CHILDCARE]

Allocation of Childcare Expenses:

  • Parent A's share ([PARENT A INCOME PERCENTAGE]%): $[PARENT A CHILDCARE SHARE]
  • Parent B's share ([PARENT B INCOME PERCENTAGE]%): $[PARENT B CHILDCARE SHARE]

B. HEALTH INSURANCE PREMIUMS

Monthly Health Insurance Premium Costs for Children:

Type of InsuranceProviderPolicy NumberMonthly Premium (Children Only)Documentation Provided
Health Insurance[HEALTH PROVIDER][HEALTH POLICY]$[HEALTH PREMIUM][ ] Insurance statement [ ] Payroll deduction [ ] Other
Dental Insurance[DENTAL PROVIDER][DENTAL POLICY]$[DENTAL PREMIUM][ ] Insurance statement [ ] Payroll deduction [ ] Other
Vision Insurance[VISION PROVIDER][VISION POLICY]$[VISION PREMIUM][ ] Insurance statement [ ] Payroll deduction [ ] Other
TOTAL MONTHLY INSURANCE PREMIUMS$[TOTAL INSURANCE]

Parent Currently Providing Insurance: [ ] Parent A [ ] Parent B [ ] Both [ ] Neither

Allocation of Insurance Premium Costs:

  • Parent A's share ([PARENT A INCOME PERCENTAGE]%): $[PARENT A INSURANCE SHARE]
  • Parent B's share ([PARENT B INCOME PERCENTAGE]%): $[PARENT B INSURANCE SHARE]

C. UNINSURED MEDICAL EXPENSES

Allocation of Uninsured/Extraordinary Medical Expenses:

  • Parent A's share ([PARENT A INCOME PERCENTAGE]%): [PARENT A INCOME PERCENTAGE]%
  • Parent B's share ([PARENT B INCOME PERCENTAGE]%): [PARENT B INCOME PERCENTAGE]%

Threshold for Extraordinary Medical Expenses: $[MEDICAL THRESHOLD] per child per calendar year

Payment Procedure for Uninsured Medical Expenses: The parent incurring the medical expense shall provide the other parent with documentation of the expense within [NUMBER] days of receipt. The non-incurring parent shall reimburse the incurring parent for their percentage share of the expense within [NUMBER] days of receiving documentation. Documentation shall include the date of service, service provider, description of service, amount charged, insurance payments or denials, and remaining balance due.

D. EDUCATIONAL EXPENSES

Monthly Educational Expenses:

Child's NameType of ExpenseInstitution/ProviderMonthly CostDocumentation Provided
[CHILD 1 NAME][EXPENSE TYPE 1][PROVIDER 1]$[CHILD 1 EDUCATION][ ] Tuition statement [ ] Receipts [ ] Other
[CHILD 2 NAME][EXPENSE TYPE 2][PROVIDER 2]$[CHILD 2 EDUCATION][ ] Tuition statement [ ] Receipts [ ] Other
[CHILD 3 NAME][EXPENSE TYPE 3][PROVIDER 3]$[CHILD 3 EDUCATION][ ] Tuition statement [ ] Receipts [ ] Other
[CHILD 4 NAME][EXPENSE TYPE 4][PROVIDER 4]$[CHILD 4 EDUCATION][ ] Tuition statement [ ] Receipts [ ] Other
TOTAL MONTHLY EDUCATIONAL EXPENSES$[TOTAL EDUCATION]

Allocation of Educational Expenses:

  • Parent A's share ([PARENT A INCOME PERCENTAGE]%): $[PARENT A EDUCATION SHARE]
  • Parent B's share ([PARENT B INCOME PERCENTAGE]%): $[PARENT B EDUCATION SHARE]

E. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Monthly Extracurricular Activity Expenses:

Child's NameActivityProvider/OrganizationMonthly CostDocumentation Provided
[CHILD 1 NAME][ACTIVITY 1][ORGANIZATION 1]$[CHILD 1 ACTIVITY][ ] Registration forms [ ] Receipts [ ] Other
[CHILD 2 NAME][ACTIVITY 2][ORGANIZATION 2]$[CHILD 2 ACTIVITY][ ] Registration forms [ ] Receipts [ ] Other
[CHILD 3 NAME][ACTIVITY 3][ORGANIZATION 3]$[CHILD 3 ACTIVITY][ ] Registration forms [ ] Receipts [ ] Other
[CHILD 4 NAME][ACTIVITY 4][ORGANIZATION 4]$[CHILD 4 ACTIVITY][ ] Registration forms [ ] Receipts [ ] Other
TOTAL MONTHLY EXTRACURRICULAR EXPENSES$[TOTAL ACTIVITIES]

Allocation of Extracurricular Activity Expenses:

  • Parent A's share ([PARENT A INCOME PERCENTAGE]%): $[PARENT A ACTIVITIES SHARE]
  • Parent B's share ([PARENT B INCOME PERCENTAGE]%): $[PARENT B ACTIVITIES SHARE]

F. TRANSPORTATION COSTS

Monthly Extraordinary Transportation Expenses:

Type of Transportation ExpenseDescriptionMonthly CostDocumentation Provided
[TRANSPORT TYPE 1][DESCRIPTION 1]$[TRANSPORT COST 1][ ] Receipts [ ] Mileage logs [ ] Other
[TRANSPORT TYPE 2][DESCRIPTION 2]$[TRANSPORT COST 2][ ] Receipts [ ] Mileage logs [ ] Other
TOTAL MONTHLY TRANSPORTATION EXPENSES$[TOTAL TRANSPORTATION]

Allocation of Transportation Expenses:

  • Parent A's share ([PARENT A INCOME PERCENTAGE]%): $[PARENT A TRANSPORTATION SHARE]
  • Parent B's share ([PARENT B INCOME PERCENTAGE]%): $[PARENT B TRANSPORTATION SHARE]

G. SUMMARY OF ADDITIONAL EXPENSES

Expense CategoryTotal Monthly CostParent A's ShareParent B's Share
Childcare$[TOTAL CHILDCARE]$[PARENT A CHILDCARE SHARE]$[PARENT B CHILDCARE SHARE]
Health Insurance$[TOTAL INSURANCE]$[PARENT A INSURANCE SHARE]$[PARENT B INSURANCE SHARE]
Educational Expenses$[TOTAL EDUCATION]$[PARENT A EDUCATION SHARE]$[PARENT B EDUCATION SHARE]
Extracurricular Activities$[TOTAL ACTIVITIES]$[PARENT A ACTIVITIES SHARE]$[PARENT B ACTIVITIES SHARE]
Transportation$[TOTAL TRANSPORTATION]$[PARENT A TRANSPORTATION SHARE]$[PARENT B TRANSPORTATION SHARE]
TOTAL ADDITIONAL EXPENSES$[TOTAL ADDITIONAL]$[PARENT A ADDITIONAL SHARE]$[PARENT B ADDITIONAL SHARE]

VII. ADJUSTMENTS AND DEVIATIONS

A. PARENTING TIME ADJUSTMENT

Parenting Time Adjustment Calculation:

  • Custody arrangement: [CUSTODY ARRANGEMENT]
  • Parent A's percentage of parenting time: [PARENT A PERCENTAGE]%
  • Parent B's percentage of parenting time: [PARENT B PERCENTAGE]%
  • Applicable adjustment formula per state guidelines: [ADJUSTMENT FORMULA]
  • Calculation: [DETAILED CALCULATION]
  • Resulting adjustment amount: $[PARENTING TIME ADJUSTMENT]

B. LOW-INCOME ADJUSTMENT

Parent A:

  • Is Parent A eligible for low-income adjustment? [ ] Yes [ ] No
  • Self-support reserve amount: $[SELF-SUPPORT RESERVE]
  • Adjusted obligation after low-income adjustment: $[PARENT A LOW-INCOME ADJUSTED]
  • Explanation of calculation: [EXPLANATION]

Parent B:

  • Is Parent B eligible for low-income adjustment? [ ] Yes [ ] No
  • Self-support reserve amount: $[SELF-SUPPORT RESERVE]
  • Adjusted obligation after low-income adjustment: $[PARENT B LOW-INCOME ADJUSTED]
  • Explanation of calculation: [EXPLANATION]

C. HIGH-INCOME CONSIDERATIONS

  • Does combined parental income exceed the guideline maximum? [ ] Yes [ ] No
  • Guideline income cap: $[GUIDELINE CAP]
  • Amount of income exceeding cap: $[EXCESS INCOME]
  • Method used to calculate support on income above cap: [METHOD]
  • Additional support amount based on income above cap: $[ADDITIONAL SUPPORT]
  • Justification for additional support amount: [JUSTIFICATION]

D. MULTIPLE FAMILY ADJUSTMENTS

Parent A:

  • Does Parent A support children in other households? [ ] Yes [ ] No
  • Number of other children legally supported: [NUMBER]
  • Theoretical support obligation for other children: $[THEORETICAL OBLIGATION]
  • Adjustment amount: $[PARENT A MULTIPLE FAMILY ADJUSTMENT]
  • Calculation method: [CALCULATION METHOD]

Parent B:

  • Does Parent B support children in other households? [ ] Yes [ ] No
  • Number of other children legally supported: [NUMBER]
  • Theoretical support obligation for other children: $[THEORETICAL OBLIGATION]
  • Adjustment amount: $[PARENT B MULTIPLE FAMILY ADJUSTMENT]
  • Calculation method: [CALCULATION METHOD]

E. DEVIATION FACTORS

Request for Deviation from Guideline Amount:

  • Is a deviation from the guideline amount requested? [ ] Yes [ ] No
  • Party requesting deviation: [ ] Parent A [ ] Parent B [ ] Both [ ] Court
  • Reason(s) for requested deviation:
    • Special needs of child(ren): [DESCRIPTION]
    • Extraordinary debt of parent(s): [DESCRIPTION]
    • Significant income of child(ren): [DESCRIPTION]
    • Shared expenses paid directly by parent(s): [DESCRIPTION]
    • Tax considerations: [DESCRIPTION]
    • Extended parenting time costs: [DESCRIPTION]
    • Other: [DESCRIPTION]
  • Amount of requested deviation: $[DEVIATION AMOUNT]
  • Detailed justification for deviation: [DETAILED JUSTIFICATION]

Court Finding on Deviation Request:

  • Deviation granted? [ ] Yes [ ] No
  • Amount of approved deviation: $[APPROVED DEVIATION]
  • Court's reasoning: [COURT REASONING]

F. SUMMARY OF ADJUSTMENTS AND DEVIATIONS

Adjustment/Deviation TypeAmountApplied To
Parenting Time Adjustment$[PARENTING TIME ADJUSTMENT][ ] Parent A [ ] Parent B
Low-Income Adjustment$[LOW-INCOME ADJUSTMENT][ ] Parent A [ ] Parent B
High-Income Consideration$[HIGH-INCOME ADJUSTMENT][ ] Parent A [ ] Parent B
Multiple Family Adjustment$[MULTIPLE FAMILY ADJUSTMENT][ ] Parent A [ ] Parent B
Approved Deviation$[APPROVED DEVIATION][ ] Parent A [ ] Parent B
TOTAL ADJUSTMENTS/DEVIATIONS$[TOTAL ADJUSTMENTS DEVIATIONS]

VIII. FINAL CALCULATIONS

A. NET SUPPORT OBLIGATION

Basic Support Calculation:

  • Basic monthly support obligation: $[BASIC MONTHLY SUPPORT]
  • Parent A's share of basic support ([PARENT A INCOME PERCENTAGE]%): $[PARENT A BASIC SHARE]
  • Parent B's share of basic support ([PARENT B INCOME PERCENTAGE]%): $[PARENT B BASIC SHARE]

Additional Expenses:

  • Parent A's share of additional expenses: $[PARENT A ADDITIONAL SHARE]
  • Parent B's share of additional expenses: $[PARENT B ADDITIONAL SHARE]

Credits for Direct Payments:

  • Credit to Parent A for direct payments: $[PARENT A DIRECT PAYMENT CREDIT]
  • Credit to Parent B for direct payments: $[PARENT B DIRECT PAYMENT CREDIT]

Adjustments and Deviations:

  • Net adjustments/deviations to Parent A's obligation: $[PARENT A NET ADJUSTMENTS]
  • Net adjustments/deviations to Parent B's obligation: $[PARENT B NET ADJUSTMENTS]

Final Monthly Support Obligation:

  • Parent A pays to Parent B: $[PARENT A TO B PAYMENT]
  • Parent B pays to Parent A: $[PARENT B TO A PAYMENT]

B. PAYMENT SCHEDULE

Payment Frequency:

  • Monthly (due on the [DAY] of each month)
  • Semi-monthly (due on the [DAY] and [DAY] of each month)
  • Bi-weekly (due every other [DAY])
  • Weekly (due every [DAY])
  • Other: [SPECIFY]

Payment Method:

  • Direct deposit
  • Check
  • Money order
  • Cash (with receipt)
  • State disbursement unit
  • Income withholding order
  • Other: [SPECIFY]

Payment Start Date: [START DATE]

C. ARREARS CALCULATION

Retroactive Support:

  • Period covered: [START DATE] to [END DATE]
  • Number of months: [NUMBER OF MONTHS]
  • Monthly support amount during period: $[MONTHLY RETROACTIVE]
  • Total retroactive support due: $[TOTAL RETROACTIVE]
  • Credits for payments already made: $[RETROACTIVE CREDITS]
  • Net retroactive support due: $[NET RETROACTIVE]

Payment Plan for Arrears:

  • Monthly payment toward arrears: $[MONTHLY ARREARS PAYMENT]
  • Total monthly payment (current support + arrears): $[TOTAL MONTHLY PAYMENT]
  • Estimated payoff date: [PAYOFF DATE]

D. TAX CONSIDERATIONS

Dependency Exemptions:

  • Parent A shall claim all children as dependents for tax purposes
  • Parent B shall claim all children as dependents for tax purposes
  • Parents shall alternate claiming children (even years: [PARENT], odd years: [PARENT])
  • Parent A shall claim the following children: [CHILDREN NAMES]
  • Parent B shall claim the following children: [CHILDREN NAMES]
  • Other arrangement: [SPECIFY]

Child Tax Credits:

  • Shall follow same arrangement as dependency exemptions
  • Other arrangement: [SPECIFY]

Tax Benefit Adjustment to Support:

  • Adjustment amount: $[TAX ADJUSTMENT]
  • Explanation of calculation: [EXPLANATION]

IX. COMPLIANCE WITH STATE LAW

A. STATE-SPECIFIC GUIDELINES

This Child Support Worksheet has been prepared in accordance with the child support guidelines of [JURISDICTION] as set forth in [STATUTORY REFERENCE]. The calculations herein follow the [INCOME SHARES/PERCENTAGE OF INCOME/MELSON FORMULA] model adopted by this jurisdiction.

B. REQUIRED STATE FORMS

The following state-mandated forms have been completed and are attached:

  • [FORM NAME 1]
  • [FORM NAME 2]
  • [FORM NAME 3]
  • [FORM NAME 4]
  • Other: [SPECIFY]

C. JURISDICTION-SPECIFIC FACTORS

The following jurisdiction-specific factors have been considered in this calculation:

  • Cost of living adjustment for [COUNTY/REGION]: [ADJUSTMENT PERCENTAGE]%
  • Local rule regarding [TOPIC]: [DESCRIPTION]
  • Other local factors: [DESCRIPTION]

X. FUTURE MODIFICATIONS

A. MODIFICATION TRIGGERS

This child support order may be reviewed and modified upon the occurrence of any of the following events:

  1. A substantial change in circumstances, including but not limited to:

    • A change in either parent's income of 15% or more
    • A change in the custody or parenting time arrangement
    • A change in the needs of the child(ren)
    • Emancipation of a child
    • A child becoming disabled

  2. As required by state law:

    • Automatic review every [NUMBER] years
    • Upon request of either parent after [NUMBER] years from the date of the last order

  3. Other specific triggers:

    • [SPECIFIC TRIGGER 1]
    • [SPECIFIC TRIGGER 2]
    • [SPECIFIC TRIGGER 3]

B. COST OF LIVING ADJUSTMENTS

  • Automatic cost of living adjustment (COLA): [ ] Yes [ ] No
  • Frequency of adjustment: [ ] Annual [ ] Biennial [ ] Other: [SPECIFY]
  • Basis for adjustment: [ ] Consumer Price Index [ ] Other: [SPECIFY]
  • Calculation method: [CALCULATION METHOD]
  • Next scheduled adjustment date: [NEXT ADJUSTMENT DATE]

C. DURATION OF SUPPORT

Child support shall continue for each child until:

  1. The child reaches the age of [AGE] years; OR
  2. The child graduates from high school, whichever occurs later, but not beyond the age of [AGE] years; OR
  3. The child becomes emancipated through marriage, court order, or other operation of law; OR
  4. The child dies; OR
  5. Other: [SPECIFY]

For a child with disabilities that will prevent self-support beyond the age of majority:

  • Support shall continue indefinitely
  • Support shall continue until: [SPECIFY]
  • A separate order addressing adult child support will be established

XI. CERTIFICATION AND SIGNATURES

I/We certify under penalty of perjury that the information provided in this Child Support Worksheet is true and correct to the best of my/our knowledge and belief.

Parent A:

Signature: _________________________________ Date: _________________

Printed Name: [PARENT A FULL LEGAL NAME]

Parent B:

Signature: _________________________________ Date: _________________

Printed Name: [PARENT B FULL LEGAL NAME]

Attorney for Parent A (if applicable):

Signature: _________________________________ Date: _________________

Printed Name: [ATTORNEY A NAME] Bar Number: [BAR NUMBER]

Attorney for Parent B (if applicable):

Signature: _________________________________ Date: _________________

Printed Name: [ATTORNEY B NAME] Bar Number: [BAR NUMBER]

Prepared By (if not a party or attorney):

Signature: _________________________________ Date: _________________

Printed Name: [PREPARER NAME] Title: [TITLE]

XII. COURT APPROVAL

This Child Support Worksheet and the resulting child support obligation are hereby approved and incorporated into the Court's Order.

ORDERED this _______ day of ________________________, [YEAR].

JUDGE/MAGISTRATE

PRINTED NAME OF JUDGE/MAGISTRATE

South Dakota Requirements for Child Support Worksheet

South Dakota Child Support Guidelines (SDCL 25-7-6.1)

South Dakota has established specific guidelines for calculating child support based on both parents' incomes and the needs of the children. These guidelines provide a standardized method for determining appropriate support amounts.

Income Shares Model (SDCL 25-7-6.2)

South Dakota uses the Income Shares Model for calculating child support, which is based on the concept that a child should receive the same proportion of parental income that the child would have received if the parents lived together.

Definition of Income (SDCL 25-7-6.3)

For child support calculations, income includes wages, salaries, commissions, bonuses, dividends, unemployment, workers' compensation, and other sources. The worksheet must accurately reflect all sources of income for both parents.

Imputation of Income (SDCL 25-7-6.4)

If a parent is unemployed or underemployed, the court may impute income based on earning capacity, recent work history, and prevailing job opportunities in the community.

Deduction for Other Child Support Obligations (SDCL 25-7-6.7)

Parents may deduct from their gross income any amounts paid for other child support obligations when calculating support for the children in the current case.

Medical Support Provisions (SDCL 25-7-6.16)

The worksheet must address health insurance coverage for the children, including which parent will provide coverage and how uncovered medical expenses will be divided between parents.

Shared Parenting Adjustment (SDCL 25-7-6.14)

When parents share physical custody (each having the child at least 120 nights per year), a cross-credit formula is applied to adjust the support obligation based on the time spent with each parent.

Low-Income Adjustment (SDCL 25-7-6.2(3))

The worksheet must include provisions for adjusting support obligations for low-income parents to ensure they maintain sufficient income for basic necessities while still supporting their children.

Deviation Factors (SDCL 25-7-6.10)

The worksheet should acknowledge that courts may deviate from guideline amounts based on factors such as special needs of the child, extraordinary medical expenses, or other circumstances that make guideline amounts unfair.

Child Care Costs (SDCL 25-7-6.15)

Work-related child care costs are to be prorated between parents according to their proportionate share of income and added to the basic support obligation.

Modification Standards (SDCL 25-7-6.13)

The worksheet should note that child support orders may be modified when there is a substantial change in circumstances or if the existing order deviates from the guidelines by at least 10%.

Federal Full Faith and Credit for Child Support Orders (28 U.S.C. § 1738B)

Child support orders issued in South Dakota must comply with federal requirements for recognition and enforcement across state lines.

Federal Tax Dependency Exemption (26 U.S.C. § 152(e))

The worksheet should address allocation of the federal tax dependency exemption between parents, which can significantly affect each parent's tax liability.

Consumer Credit Protection Act Limitations (15 U.S.C. § 1673(b))

Child support withholding is subject to federal limits on the percentage of disposable income that can be garnished for support obligations.

Mandatory Use of Guidelines (42 U.S.C. § 667)

Federal law requires states to establish child support guidelines and create a rebuttable presumption that the guideline amount is correct, which South Dakota has implemented in its statutes.

Interstate Enforcement (SDCL 25-9C)

The worksheet should comply with the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA) as adopted in South Dakota, which governs interstate enforcement of support orders.

Abatement of Support During Extended Visitation (SDCL 25-7-6.14)

South Dakota law provides for potential abatement of child support during periods of extended visitation with the non-custodial parent, which should be reflected in the worksheet calculations.

Required Financial Disclosure (SDCL 25-7-6.26)

Both parents must provide complete financial information for accurate calculation of child support, including income verification, tax returns, and documentation of expenses.

Child Support Enforcement Provisions (42 U.S.C. § 666; SDCL 25-7A)

The worksheet must acknowledge federal and state mechanisms for enforcing child support orders, including income withholding, tax refund intercepts, and reporting to credit bureaus.

Termination of Support (SDCL 25-5-18.1)

The worksheet should specify when the support obligation terminates, typically when the child reaches age 18 or graduates from high school, whichever occurs later, but not beyond age 19 in South Dakota.

Frequently Asked Questions

A Child Support Worksheet is a standardized form used by courts to determine the appropriate amount of child support to be paid by the non-custodial parent. The worksheet follows your state's child support guidelines and formulas, taking into account both parents' incomes, the number of children, parenting time arrangements, and specific expenses related to the children. This document helps ensure that child support calculations are consistent and fair across similar cases.

Child support calculations typically follow a formula established by state guidelines. The worksheet generally considers: both parents' gross incomes, adjustments for taxes and mandatory deductions, healthcare and childcare expenses, other child-related costs (such as education), the number of children requiring support, and the parenting time arrangement. Most states use either an income shares model (combining both parents' incomes to determine support) or a percentage of income model (based primarily on the non-custodial parent's income). The worksheet performs these calculations systematically to arrive at a recommended support amount.

For business owners, child support calculations can be more complex. The court will consider your actual income from the business, not just your reported salary. This may include profits, distributions, retained earnings, and other benefits that could be considered income. Business owners should be prepared to provide detailed financial documentation, including tax returns, profit and loss statements, and balance sheets. In some cases, the court may impute income if they believe you're underreporting your actual earnings or deliberately reducing your income to minimize support obligations.

While child support is primarily based on income rather than assets, significant marital assets can indirectly affect support calculations. If assets generate income (such as dividends, interest, or rental income), that income is typically included in the support calculation. Additionally, if one parent receives substantial assets in the divorce settlement that could be liquidated to generate income, courts may consider the potential income from those assets. However, the primary residence and retirement accounts are generally not expected to be liquidated for child support purposes.

Yes, parents can agree to a different amount than what the worksheet calculates, but this agreement must typically be approved by the court. The court will review any agreement to ensure it meets the children's needs and doesn't deviate too significantly from the guidelines without good reason. If you wish to deviate from the calculated amount, you should document your reasoning clearly, showing how the alternative arrangement better serves the children's interests. The court has the final authority to approve or reject any agreement that substantially deviates from the guideline amount.

Child support can be modified whenever there is a substantial change in circumstances that would significantly affect the support calculation. Examples include: significant changes in either parent's income (increase or decrease), changes in the custody arrangement or parenting time, changes in the children's needs (such as developing special medical or educational requirements), or changes in costs for healthcare or childcare. Most states allow for review every three years without proving a change in circumstances, but modifications can be requested earlier if substantial changes occur. The modification process typically requires completing a new Child Support Worksheet with updated information.

If your income fluctuates significantly due to business performance, commissions, or bonuses, the court may average your income over the past 2-3 years to establish a baseline for child support calculations. Alternatively, the court might set a base support amount using your guaranteed income, with additional percentage-based payments when you receive bonuses or higher business income. Some states also allow for an annual 'true-up' process where support is recalculated based on actual income received. It's important to maintain detailed records of income fluctuations and be prepared to provide this documentation during support proceedings.

Extraordinary expenses such as private school tuition, specialized educational needs, extensive medical treatments, or elite extracurricular activities may be handled separately from the basic child support calculation. The worksheet typically has sections for these additional expenses, which may be allocated between parents proportionally based on their incomes or through a different agreed-upon arrangement. For significant expenses, it's advisable to specifically address how these costs will be shared in your parenting plan or support order, including the process for approving new expenses and handling reimbursements.