New York Child Support Calculator

New York uses the percentage of income model. New York uses the Child Support Standards Act (CSSA), a percentage-of-income model under DRL Section 240(1-b). Both parents' gross incomes are combined, then a statutory percentage is applied based on the number of children: 17% for 1 child, 25% for 2 children, 29% for 3 children, 31% for 4 children, and at least 35% for 5 or more children. The total obligation is prorated between parents based on each parent's share of combined income. The non-custodial parent generally pays their share to the custodial parent. For combined parental income above the statutory cap ($183,000 for March 1, 2024 through February 28, 2026), the court may apply the percentages or consider statutory factors. As of March 1, 2025, the Self-Support Reserve is $21,128. The court must ensure a support order does not reduce the payor below the SSR.

Gross income from all sources is typically used, including wages, salary, bonuses, commissions, self-employment income, rental income, investment income, Social Security benefits, unemployment benefits, and disability benefits. Courts may also impute income if a parent is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed.

Child support in New York generally continues until the child turns 18, or through high school graduation if the child is still in school. Some orders extend to age 19 or 21 depending on the state and circumstances (college support, special needs).

Yes, child support orders in New York can be modified when there is a substantial change in circumstances. Common reasons include significant income changes (job loss, promotion), changes in custody arrangement, changes in the child's needs, or changes in healthcare costs.

New York has enforcement mechanisms including wage garnishment, tax refund interception, license suspension (driver's and professional), bank account levies, contempt of court charges, and reporting to credit bureaus. Failure to pay can result in fines and jail time.