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How is child support calculated in Ohio?

Federal & State Law Editorial TeamLast reviewed: 2026-04-30

Ohio child support is governed by R.C. Chapter 3119 and uses an Income Shares model based on a statewide schedule. The current schedule was overhauled by HB 366 effective March 28, 2019.

1. The Income Shares Schedule (R.C. § 3119.021)

The schedule shows combined gross incomes from $8,400 up to $336,467 annually, with corresponding presumptive support obligations by number of children. Above the cap, the court determines support case-by-case based on the needs and standard of living of the children.

2. Basic Calculation

  • Determine each parent's gross income (R.C. § 3119.01(C)(12)) — wages, self-employment, commissions, royalties, dividends, severance, pensions, unemployment, workers' comp, gifts, etc.
  • Combine gross incomes.
  • Look up the basic obligation on the Schedule (R.C. § 3119.021).
  • Add add-ons (childcare and health insurance under § 3119.30).
  • Each parent owes a pro rata share; the non-residential parent's share becomes the order.
  • 3. Parenting Time Adjustment (R.C. § 3119.051)

    When the obligor has court-ordered parenting time of 90 or more overnights per year, the obligor receives an automatic 10% reduction. Additional deviations are allowed for extended parenting.

    4. Health Insurance & Cash Medical (R.C. § 3119.30)

    The order must designate which parent provides health insurance, and the cost is allocated. Cash medical support of approximately $388.70/year per child (indexed) is added when no insurance is provided.

    5. Duration (R.C. § 3119.86)

    Support continues until the child:

  • Reaches age 18 if no longer attending high school, OR
  • Graduates from high school but not past age 19, OR
  • Becomes emancipated through marriage, military, or self-support.
  • A mentally or physically disabled adult child may receive lifelong support if disabled before age 18.

    6. Modification (R.C. § 3119.79)

    A modification is warranted when guideline recalculation produces a change of 10% or more from the existing order. The agency can also conduct a 36-month administrative review.

    7. Self-Sufficiency Reserve (R.C. § 3119.06)

    For obligors below 116% of the federal poverty level, a reduced minimum applies — typically $80/month.

    This is legal information, not legal advice.

    When to Talk to a Lawyer
    • Combined gross income exceeds $336,467 (above the schedule)
    • You have 90+ overnights and want the parenting-time reduction
    • Income imputation is in dispute
    Related Statutes & Laws
    • Ohio R.C. § 3119.021
    • Ohio R.C. § 3119.051
    • Ohio R.C. § 3119.30
    • Ohio R.C. § 3119.79
    • Ohio R.C. § 3119.86

    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.