Colorado Child Support Calculator

Free instant estimate based on Colorado's Income Shares model (C.R.S. §14-10-115)

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Select a state and enter your monthly gross income to see an estimated child support payment based on net income.

How Colorado Calculates Child Support

Colorado calculates child support using the Income Shares Model as defined in C.R.S. §14-10-115. Both parents' adjusted gross incomes are combined to determine the total support obligation from the state schedule. Each parent's share is proportional to their share of the combined income.

Health insurance premiums for the child, work-related childcare costs, and extraordinary medical expenses are added to the basic obligation. Colorado provides specific adjustments for overnight parenting time when a parent has 93 or more overnights per year, and may also order post-secondary education expenses.

Courts may deviate from the guideline amount when applying the formula would be unjust. Factors considered include the child's special needs, the financial resources of both parents, the standard of living, and any extraordinary expenses related to the child's education or healthcare.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Colorado calculate child support using the Income Shares Model?
Colorado uses the Income Shares Model under C.R.S. §14-10-115. Both parents' adjusted gross incomes are combined to determine the basic support obligation from the state schedule. Each parent then pays their proportional share based on their percentage of the combined income.
What is the self-support reserve in Colorado?
Colorado's self-support reserve is $1,150 per month (2024). This ensures the obligor parent retains enough income to meet their own basic living needs. If the parent's income is near this threshold, the court may reduce the support obligation.
How do overnight visits affect Colorado child support?
Colorado provides an adjustment when a parent has 93 or more overnights per year with the child. The adjustment reduces the support obligation to account for the direct costs the parent incurs while the child is in their care during those overnights.
Does Colorado order college expenses?
Yes. Colorado courts may order post-secondary education expenses separately from the basic child support obligation. This can include tuition, room and board, books, and other costs associated with college or vocational education.
Can Colorado child support be modified?
Yes. Either parent can request a modification if there has been a material and substantial change in circumstances since the last order. This includes significant income changes, changes in custody or parenting time, or changes in the child's needs.

Important Legal Disclaimer

The information provided on SupportCalc is for general informational and educational purposes only. Nothing on this website should be taken as legal advice. Child support calculations are estimates based on publicly available state guidelines and may not reflect the exact amount ordered by a court. Every case is unique, and many factors can affect the final support order. Please consult with a qualified family law attorney in your jurisdiction for advice specific to your situation.