Minnesota Child Support Calculator

Free instant estimate based on Minnesota's Income Shares model (MN Statutes §518A)

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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 Minnesota Calculates Child Support

Minnesota calculates child support using the Income Shares Model as defined in Minnesota Statutes §518A. Both parents' gross incomes are combined to determine the total support obligation from the state schedule, then each parent's share is allocated proportionally based on their percentage of the combined income. Minnesota uses a broad-based gross income definition and provides a Parenting Time Expense Adjustment (PTEA).

The calculation begins by determining each parent's gross monthly income from all sources using Minnesota's broad-based income definition. These incomes are combined, and the state schedule is used to find the basic support obligation. Health insurance premiums and childcare costs are added, and adjustments are made for parenting time (PTEA), children from other relationships, low-income status, and the self-support reserve of $1,120 per month.

The PTEA is a key feature of Minnesota's system, providing credits that reduce the support obligation based on the percentage of parenting time. This ensures that parents with significant parenting time receive appropriate financial recognition for the direct expenses they incur.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Minnesota calculate child support under the Income Shares model?
Minnesota uses the Income Shares Model under Minnesota Statutes §518A. Both parents' gross incomes are combined to determine the total support obligation from the state schedule, then each parent's share is allocated proportionally based on their percentage of combined income, with parenting time expense adjustments.
What is the Parenting Time Expense Adjustment (PTEA)?
Minnesota provides a Parenting Time Expense Adjustment (PTEA) that reduces the support obligation based on the percentage of parenting time the paying parent has. The more parenting time, the greater the reduction, accounting for direct expenses incurred during parenting time.
What is the self-support reserve in Minnesota?
Minnesota maintains a self-support reserve of $1,120 per month (as of 2024). This ensures the paying parent retains enough income to meet their own basic living needs before child support is calculated.
Does Minnesota consider both parents' income for child support?
Yes. Minnesota's Income Shares Model combines both parents' gross incomes to determine the total support obligation. Each parent is responsible for their proportional share based on their income as a percentage of the combined total.
Does Minnesota consider children from other relationships?
Yes. Minnesota considers the cost of children from other relationships when calculating child support. The court may reduce the support obligation to account for prior-born or subsequent-born children that the parent is legally obligated to support.

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.