South Dakota Child Support Calculator

South Dakota uses the income shares model. South Dakota uses the Income Shares Model under SDCL Chapter 25-7. The child support obligation is based on the combined monthly net income of both parents and the number of children. The state provides a Child Support Obligation Schedule that sets the basic support amount. Each parent's share is proportional to their percentage of combined net income. Adjustments are made for health insurance, child care costs, and extraordinary expenses. The guidelines are reviewed every four years as required by federal law.

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 South Dakota 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 South Dakota 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.

South Dakota 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.