How is child support calculated in Florida?

Florida child support is governed by the Income Shares Guideline in Fla. Stat. § 61.30.

1. Income Shares Methodology

The court determines each parent's monthly net income (gross less allowable deductions in § 61.30(3)), combines them, and looks up the basic monthly obligation on the Child Support Guideline Schedule in § 61.30(6). Each parent owes a share proportional to their income.

2. Allowable Deductions (§ 61.30(3))

Federal/state income tax, FICA, mandatory union dues, mandatory retirement, health insurance (excluding the child's portion), court-ordered support actually paid, spousal support paid.

3. Substantial Timesharing Adjustment (§ 61.30(11)(b))

If a parent exercises at least 20% of overnights (73+ per year), the gross-up method applies: the basic obligation is multiplied by 1.5, then each parent's share is allocated based on the percentage of overnights with the other parent.

4. Add-Ons (§ 61.30(7)-(8))

Childcare required for employment, education, or job search

Health insurance premium for the child

Uncovered medical/dental/prescription expenses

5. Duration (Fla. Stat. § 743.07(2))

Support continues until the child:

Turns 18, OR

Turns 19 if still in high school with a reasonable expectation of graduation, OR

Becomes incapacitated as an adult (lifetime support possible).

6. Deviation (§ 61.30(1)(a))

The guideline amount is presumed correct and may vary by ±5% without findings. Greater deviation requires written findings on factors such as extraordinary medical expenses, IRS dependency exemption assignment, special needs, or seasonal income.

7. Modification (§ 61.30(1)(b))

Modification requires a substantial change — generally a difference of at least 15% or $50, whichever is greater, between the existing order and a new guideline calculation. A 3-year review of orders is also available through the Florida Department of Revenue.

8. Imputed Income (§ 61.30(2)(b))

If a parent is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed, the court may impute income based on recent work history, occupational qualifications, and prevailing local earnings.

This is legal information, not legal advice.