Tennessee Child Support Calculator

Free instant estimate based on Tennessee's Income Shares model (T.C.A. §36-5-101)

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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 Tennessee Calculates Child Support

Tennessee calculates child support using the Income Shares Model as defined in T.C.A. §36-5-101. Both parents' gross incomes are combined to determine the total support obligation from the state schedule. Each parent's share is then allocated proportionally based on their percentage of the combined income.

Tennessee requires a minimum support order of $100 per month in every case. Health insurance premiums for the child, childcare costs, and extraordinary educational expenses may be added to the base obligation. The state also maintains a self-support reserve of $1,040 per month (2024) and provides per capita credits for other qualifying children.

Tennessee provides shared parenting adjustments and allows the court to consider extraordinary educational expenses such as private school tuition and tutoring. A significant variance (typically 15%) in circumstances is required to modify an existing order.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Tennessee calculate child support under the Income Shares method?
Tennessee uses the Income Shares Model under T.C.A. §36-5-101. Both parents' gross incomes are combined to determine the total support obligation, which is then allocated to each parent proportionally based on their share of combined income.
What is the minimum child support in Tennessee?
Tennessee requires a minimum support order of $100 per month in every case. This minimum ensures that some level of financial support is always ordered, regardless of the parents' financial circumstances.
What counts as income for Tennessee child support?
Tennessee uses gross income, which includes wages, salary, commissions, bonuses, self-employment income, interest, dividends, rental income, pensions, and Social Security benefits from all sources.
Does Tennessee consider both parents' income for child support?
Yes. Tennessee uses the Income Shares Model, which requires combining both parents' gross incomes to determine the total support obligation. Each parent is responsible for their proportional share based on their percentage of combined income.
Can Tennessee child support be modified?
Yes. Either parent can request a modification if there has been a significant variance in circumstances. A significant variance is generally defined as a 15% change in the support amount.

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.