New Jersey Child Support Calculator
Estimate weekly support obligations based on the NJ Income Shares Model
Estimated Weekly Obligation
Understanding the New Jersey Child Support Guidelines
New Jersey follows the Income Shares Model for calculating child support. This model is based on the principle that children should receive the same proportion of parental income that they would have received if the parents lived together. The state uses specific guidelines (Appendix IX-F) to determine the basic obligation based on the combined net weekly income of both parents.
How the NJ Support Formula Works
The calculation process involves several critical steps to ensure fairness and adequate support for the child:
- Determination of Net Income: Both parents must calculate their weekly net income, which is gross income minus mandatory taxes, union dues, and prior child support orders.
- Combined Income Analysis: The incomes are added together to find the "Basic Child Support Amount" from the New Jersey schedule.
- Proportional Responsibility: Each parent is responsible for a percentage of the total support equal to their percentage of the combined income.
- Add-ons: Work-related childcare and health insurance costs for the child are added to the basic support amount before the final split is calculated.
Example Calculation (Realistic Scenario)
Parent A (Custodial): $800/week net
Parent B (Non-custodial): $1,200/week net
Number of Children: 1
Combined Income: $2,000/week
Childcare: $100/week
In this scenario, Parent B earns 60% of the total income. If the basic support for $2,000 is approximately $300, and we add $100 for childcare, the total is $400. Parent B would be responsible for 60% of $400, resulting in a $240 weekly payment.
Sole vs. Shared Parenting Time
The calculation differs significantly depending on the parenting schedule. A Sole Parenting worksheet is used when the non-custodial parent has the child for less than 28% of overnights (104 overnights per year). If the non-custodial parent has the child for more than 104 overnights, a Shared Parenting worksheet is used, which typically reduces the support amount to account for the costs incurred while the child is with the other parent.
Modifying a Child Support Order in NJ
Under New Jersey law, child support orders can be modified if there is a "substantial change in circumstances." This might include a significant increase or decrease in income, a change in the child's medical needs, or a shift in the parenting time schedule. It is recommended to review support orders every three years.