How Child Support is Calculated in Georgia
Georgia adopted the Income Shares model in 2007. Combined adjusted income determines a Basic Child Support Obligation from a state-published schedule. Each parent's pro-rata share is then adjusted for health insurance, work-related childcare, and parenting-time deviations.
Estimated Monthly Child Support in Georgia
Below are sample calculations using our Georgia formula. These figures assume the higher-earning parent pays support and exclude childcare or insurance add-ons.
| Your Income | Other Parent | 1 Child | 2 Children | 3 Children |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $3,000/mo | $3,000/mo | ~$720 | ~$1,260 | ~$1,692 |
| $4,000/mo | $2,500/mo | ~$880 | ~$1,540 | ~$2,068 |
| $6,000/mo | $3,000/mo | ~$1,200 | ~$2,100 | ~$2,820 |
What Can Increase or Decrease Payments in Georgia?
- Each parent's gross monthly income from all sources
- The number of children covered by the order
- Health insurance premiums paid for the children
- Work-related childcare and daycare expenses
- How much overnight parenting time each parent has
- Any extraordinary medical, educational, or special-needs costs
How to File for Child Support in Georgia
- Open a case with Georgia's Department of Child Support Services (or the equivalent state agency).
- Provide proof of both parents' income — pay stubs, tax returns, or a financial affidavit.
- Submit a parenting plan or custody order showing each parent's overnight time.
- Attend a hearing or administrative review where a judge or referee finalizes the order.
Frequently Asked Questions — Georgia Child Support
Does Georgia have a parenting-time deviation?
Yes. Georgia courts may grant a parenting-time deviation when the non-custodial parent has substantial visitation, but it is not automatic — the court must make written findings.
Are bonuses and commissions counted in Georgia?
Yes. Georgia defines gross income broadly to include salary, bonuses, commissions, self-employment income, and most fringe benefits.
Can Georgia child support be deviated upward?
Yes. High-income deviations apply when combined income exceeds the schedule's top range ($30,000/month), and courts can also adjust for extraordinary educational or medical expenses.
When does Georgia child support end?
Generally at age 18, or up to 20 if the child is still enrolled in secondary school.