North Dakota Child Support Calculator & Guide (2025)
Overview of North Dakota Child Support
North Dakota uses a straightforward Percentage of Income model under NDCC §14-09-09.7. Unlike most states that use the Income Shares Model, North Dakota calculates child support by applying a set percentage to the obligor parent's net income, with adjustments available for children from other relationships.
This approach makes North Dakota's child support calculations relatively simple and predictable. The percentage increases with the number of children, and there is no statutory income cap.
How Child Support Is Calculated in North Dakota
The North Dakota child support formula works as follows:
- Determine net monthly income: Start with gross income and subtract federal and state income taxes, Social Security, Medicare, health insurance for the child, and mandatory retirement contributions
- Apply the percentage based on the number of children
- Adjust for multi-family obligations if the parent has children from other relationships
- Consider the self-support reserve to ensure the obligor retains poverty-level income
North Dakota Child Support Percentages
| Number of Children | % of Net Income | Example ($4,000/mo net) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 child | 17% | $680 |
| 2 children | 25% | $1,000 |
| 3 children | 29% | $1,160 |
| 4 children | 31% | $1,240 |
| 5 children | 33% | $1,320 |
| 6+ children | 35% | $1,400 |
Key Factors in North Dakota Calculations
Net Income Definition
North Dakota defines net income as gross income from all sources minus:
- Federal and state income taxes
- Social Security taxes
- Medicare taxes
- Health insurance premiums for the child
- Mandatory retirement contributions
No Income Cap
Unlike many states, North Dakota does not have a statutory income cap. The percentage is applied to all of the obligor's net income regardless of how high it may be.
Adjustments for Other Children
If the obligor parent has children from other relationships that they are legally obligated to support, the percentage may be reduced. This multi-family adjustment ensures that all children receive fair support.
Low-Income Adjustments
Low-income obligors may qualify for a reduced obligation. The self-support reserve ensures that the obligor retains enough income at or above the poverty level to meet their own basic needs.
Minimum and Maximum Amounts
Minimum: North Dakota does not have a fixed statutory minimum, but the self-support reserve protects low-income obligors by ensuring they retain poverty-level income.
Maximum: There is no income cap in North Dakota. The percentage applies to all net income.
Modification and Enforcement
Modification
North Dakota allows modification when:
- There has been a material change in circumstances
- A significant change in the obligor's income has occurred
- The number of children being supported has changed
- Custody arrangements have changed
Enforcement
The North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services - Child Support enforces child support through:
- Income withholding from paychecks
- Tax refund interception
- Driver's license suspension
- Professional license suspension
- Credit bureau reporting
- Contempt of court proceedings
- Liens on property and financial accounts
Get your North Dakota estimate: Use our free North Dakota child support calculator to see what you might owe or receive under North Dakota guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is child support calculated in North Dakota?
What counts as net income in North Dakota?
Is there an income cap for North Dakota child support?
Does North Dakota consider both parents' income?
Can North Dakota 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.