Calculation Overview
An in-depth explanation of the Income Shares model, the Percentage of Obligor Income model, and the Melson Formula used across US jurisdictions.
Read guideModel Comparison
Comparing how states determine baseline parental obligations when both parents work versus when only the non-custodial parent's income is factored.
Read guideGuideline Deviations
Recognized statutory deviation factors including high medical costs, special education needs, extraordinary travel expenses, and shared parenting time.
Read guideModification Criteria
Statutory standards for seeking an upward or downward support modification, including 15-20% guideline variance thresholds and involuntary job loss.
Read guideImputed Income
How family courts impute earning capacity to parents who are voluntarily unemployed or underemployed based on work history, qualifications, and local wages.
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