Free · North Carolina · Current law
Based on North Carolina's official Income Shares formula. Enter both parents' incomes and get an estimate in under a minute.
Before taxes — wages, self-employment, bonuses
A best estimate is fine for now
Taxes, mandatory retirement, union dues…
Work or school related
Estimated monthly support
The other parent pays you, the parent with primary timesharing.
Estimate only — based on a simplified reading of North Carolina Schedule of Basic Support Obligations (effective January 1, 2023). A judge can deviate. Not legal advice.
Get a plain-English copy of this estimate, the numbers used, and a short checklist for what to review before relying on it.
North Carolina's child support guidelines are based on the income shares model. Child support obligations are determined by calculating the combined adjusted gross income of both parents, then referencing a schedule of basic child support obligations based on the number of children. This basic obligation is then adjusted to include reasonable childcare costs, health insurance premiums, and certain extraordinary expenses, prorated between parents based on their respective incomes. The parent with the higher child support obligation pays the difference to the other parent.
A substantial change in either parent's income — voluntary or involuntary — can trigger a modification.
Changes in childcare costs or the children's health insurance premiums directly adjust the support amount.
If the custody schedule changes significantly, support can be recalculated under North Carolina guidelines.
Medical conditions, disabilities, or educational needs can justify a departure from the guideline amount.
Common questions
An absolute divorce in North Carolina requires a one-year separation period. After this period, the divorce process itself can be completed in as little as 30-60 days if uncontested, but may take longer if there are complex issues or court backlogs.
While it is possible to file for divorce without a lawyer in North Carolina, especially for uncontested cases, it is highly recommended to consult with an attorney to understand your legal rights and ensure all paperwork is filed correctly. Court staff cannot provide legal advice.
Yes, North Carolina is a no-fault divorce state. The primary ground for absolute divorce is a one-year separation of the parties with the intent that the separation be permanent. No specific marital misconduct needs to be proven.
North Carolina follows the principle of equitable distribution (G.S. 50-20). This means marital and divisible property is divided fairly, but not necessarily equally (50/50). The court considers various factors to determine an equitable division.
'Divorce from Bed and Board' is a court-ordered legal separation in North Carolina, not an absolute divorce. It can be granted on fault-based grounds such as abandonment, cruel treatment, or adultery, and allows parties to live separately while still legally married. It does not terminate the marriage.
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