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How is child support payment calculated in Virginia?

On Behalf of | Sep 9, 2024 | Child Support |

Virginia follows the “income shares model” of child support. In this model, you calculate both parents’ combined gross income and divide the support obligation proportionally based on each parent’s income and the number of children. The court may set a lower obligation if the parent’s income exceeds 150% of the federal poverty level.

How to calculate

A simplified way to calculate the support payment generally goes like this:

  1. Determine the combined gross monthly income of both parents.
  2. Use the combined gross monthly income and the number of children to find the basic child support obligation.
  3. Divide each parent’s income by their combined gross income to get their proportional share.
  4. Multiply the basic child support obligation by the proportional share.

The court will adjust further for additional costs such as health insurance, child care and other medical expenses.

Payment schedule guidelines

Basic child support obligation

Combined monthly gross income 1 child 2 children 3 children 4 children 5 children 6 children
$35,000 $1,989 $2,927 $3,408 $3,807 $4,188 $4,552
>$35,000 2.6% 3.4% 3.8% 4.2% 4.6% 5.0%

 

See the table for combined gross incomes below $35,000 here.

Sample calculation

Using the above steps and payment schedule, a sample calculation could look like this:

Combined gross income: $35,000 for 2 children

Parent A: ($20,000/$35,000) x $2,927 = $1,672.57

Parent B: $15,000/$35,000) x $2,927 = $1,254.43

Other variable factors

The court considers other factors in calculating child support payments, so this sample calculation is only an approximate guide. Each case will vary, as several factors, such as types of custody (sole, split, shared), affect the computation. The gross income calculation does not include social security income and public benefits.

If you need more guidance about your particular case, it is advisable to consult a legal professional who will be able to give you specific, tailored advice.

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