Free · Colorado · Current law

Colorado Child Support Calculator

Based on Colorado's official Income Shares formula. Enter both parents' incomes and get an estimate in under a minute.

This estimate is based on the information you provided and general Colorado guidelines. Actual court orders may differ. This is not legal advice.
Your gross monthly income
$/mo

Before taxes — wages, self-employment, bonuses

Other parent's gross monthly income
$/mo

A best estimate is fine for now

Number of children
Who has the children most of the time?
Other parent's overnights per year
nights/yr
By schedule:
By %:
Est. monthly child support
$—/mo

Estimated monthly support

$—/mo

The other parent pays you, the parent with primary timesharing.

Combined net income
Guideline obligation
Childcare + health add-ons
Paying parent's income share
Timesharing credit $0

Estimate only — based on a simplified reading of Colorado HB25-1159 (Revised) — Schedule of Basic Child Support Obligations, effective March 1, 2026. Official calculator → A judge can deviate. Not legal advice.

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How Colorado child support is calculated

Colorado uses the Income Shares Model to calculate child support. This model combines the gross incomes of both parents to determine a basic support obligation, which is then divided proportionally based on each parent's income share. The calculation considers the number of children and adjusts for factors like parenting time, healthcare, and childcare costs. The state uses two worksheets: Worksheet A for sole physical care (92 or fewer overnights for one parent) and Worksheet B for shared physical care (more than 92 overnights for both parents).

What can change your child support amount

Income changes

A substantial change in either parent's income — voluntary or involuntary — can trigger a modification.

Childcare & insurance

Changes in childcare costs or the children's health insurance premiums directly adjust the support amount.

Parenting time shifts

If the custody schedule changes significantly, support can be recalculated under Colorado guidelines.

Child's special needs

Medical conditions, disabilities, or educational needs can justify a departure from the guideline amount.

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Common questions

What people ask about child support

How long does a divorce take in Colorado?

An uncontested divorce in Colorado can be finalized in as little as 92 days due to the mandatory waiting period. Contested divorces typically take 6-9 months or longer, depending on the complexity of issues such as property division, child custody, and support.

Do I need a lawyer to get divorced in Colorado?

No, you are not legally required to have a lawyer to get divorced in Colorado. Individuals can file for divorce 'pro se' (representing themselves). However, it is generally recommended to consult with an attorney, especially in cases involving complex assets, debts, or child-related matters, to ensure all legal requirements are met and your rights are protected.

Is Colorado a no-fault divorce state?

Yes, Colorado is a no-fault divorce state. The only legal ground for divorce is that the marriage is 'irretrievably broken,' as stated in C.R.S. § 14-10-106. This means neither spouse needs to prove fault or misconduct (such as adultery or abandonment) to obtain a divorce.

How is property divided in Colorado divorce?

Colorado follows the principle of equitable distribution for dividing marital property and debts. This means that marital property (assets and debts acquired during the marriage) is divided fairly, but not necessarily equally, between the spouses. Separate property (acquired before marriage or by gift/inheritance) is generally retained by the owning spouse. The court considers various factors to determine a just division, as outlined in C.R.S. § 14-10-113.

What is the 91-day waiting period in Colorado divorce?

Colorado law mandates a minimum 91-day waiting period after the petition for dissolution of marriage is filed (or after service of process on the respondent) before a divorce decree can be issued. This period, specified in C.R.S. § 14-10-106(1)(a)(III), is intended to allow for reflection, potential reconciliation, or the finalization of settlement agreements between the parties.

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