How is child support calculated in Missouri?
Missouri child support is governed by RSMo § 452.340 and Missouri Supreme Court Rule 88.01, which require completion of Form 14 — the Presumed Child Support Calculation Worksheet — in every case.
1. The Form 14 Calculation
Form 14 is a 12-line worksheet that performs an Income Shares computation:
2. Overnight Adjustment (Form 14, Line 12)
The non-custodial parent receives an overnight visitation credit ranging from:
3. Schedule Range
The Schedule covers combined adjusted gross incomes up to $30,000/month. Above that, the court has discretion based on the child's needs.
4. Duration (RSMo § 452.340.5)
Support continues until the child:
The college continuation requires the child to maintain enrollment, provide grade transcripts, and meet other statutory benchmarks.
5. Rebuttal (Rule 88.01(b))
Form 14's amount is rebuttably presumed correct. The court must enter a written or specific finding that the Form 14 amount is unjust or inappropriate to deviate.
6. Modification (RSMo § 452.370)
Modification requires substantial and continuing change in circumstances. A statutory 20% rebuttable presumption of substantial change applies when guideline recalculation differs by 20% or more from the existing order.
7. Imputation
Imputed income is allowed for voluntary unemployment/underemployment, often based on full-time minimum wage as a starting point.
This is legal information, not legal advice.
- Your child is enrolled in college and you need to interpret the § 452.340.5 requirements
- Significant overnight credit is at issue
- You are seeking a Form 14 deviation based on unjust outcome
- RSMo § 452.340
- RSMo § 452.370
- Mo. Sup. Ct. R. 88.01
This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.