New Hampshire Child Support Calculator & Guide (2025)
Overview of New Hampshire Child Support
New Hampshire uses the Percentage of Income Model under RSA §458-C. The obligor parent pays a fixed percentage of their adjusted gross income, with the percentage scaling based on the number of children. Notably, New Hampshire has no statutory income cap and no state income tax on wages.
The New Hampshire Division of Child Support Services, part of the Department of Health and Human Services, administers and enforces child support orders across the state.
How Child Support Is Calculated in New Hampshire
The New Hampshire child support formula works as follows:
- Determine adjusted gross income: Start with gross income and subtract certain allowed deductions (note: no state income tax on wages in NH)
- Apply the percentage based on the number of children
- No income cap — percentages apply to all adjusted gross income
- Apply the self-support reserve — the obligor retains at least $1,210/month
- Consider shared parenting adjustments if applicable
New Hampshire Child Support Percentages
| Number of Children | % of Adjusted Gross Income | Example ($4,000/mo AGI) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 child | 25% | $1,000 |
| 2 children | 33% | $1,320 |
| 3 children | 37% | $1,480 |
| 4 children | 39% | $1,560 |
| 5+ children | 41% | $1,640 |
Key Factors in New Hampshire Calculations
Adjusted Gross Income
New Hampshire defines adjusted gross income as gross income minus certain deductions. Since New Hampshire has no state income tax on wages, parents keep more of their earnings, which affects the base amount the percentage is applied to:
- Wages, salaries, and commissions
- Bonuses and overtime pay
- Self-employment income
- Investment and rental income
- Pensions and retirement benefits
- Social Security benefits
Self-Support Reserve
New Hampshire protects low-income obligors by ensuring they retain at least $1,210 per month (2024) for their own basic living needs. If the calculated support would leave the obligor below this threshold, the obligation is reduced.
Shared Parenting Adjustments
New Hampshire provides adjustments for shared parenting arrangements. When both parents have significant parenting time, the court may adjust the support calculation to reflect the direct expenses each parent incurs during their time with the children.
Minimum and Maximum Amounts
Minimum: $50 per month, unless the court finds good cause for a lower amount.
No income cap: New Hampshire is unusual in that it has no statutory income cap. The support percentages apply to all of the obligor's adjusted gross income, regardless of amount.
Modification and Enforcement
Modification
New Hampshire allows modification when:
- There has been a substantial change in circumstances since the last order
- A significant change in either parent's income occurs
- Custody or parenting time arrangements change
- The child's needs change significantly
Enforcement
The New Hampshire Division of Child Support Services enforces orders through:
- Income withholding from paychecks
- Tax refund interception (federal)
- Driver's license suspension
- Professional license suspension
- Credit bureau reporting
- Contempt of court proceedings
- Liens on property and financial accounts
- Passport denial for arrears exceeding $2,500
Get your New Hampshire estimate: Use our free child support calculator to see what you might owe or receive under New Hampshire guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is child support calculated in New Hampshire?
Is there an income cap for New Hampshire child support?
What is the self-support reserve in New Hampshire?
Does New Hampshire have state income tax?
Can New Hampshire child support be modified?
Legal Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Child support laws vary by state and are subject to change. For advice specific to your situation, please consult a qualified family law attorney in your jurisdiction.