Free · Ohio · Current law

Ohio Child Support Calculator

Based on Ohio'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 Ohio 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 Ohio Revised Code Section 3119.021 - Child Support Schedule. Official calculator → A judge can deviate. Not legal advice.

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How Ohio child support is calculated

Ohio uses an income shares model to calculate child support. This model considers the combined income of both parents and other relevant factors to determine a total support obligation. A guideline worksheet and a schedule (table) are used, where the schedule lists annual income and corresponding support obligations based on the number of children. The obligation amounts are derived using the Betson-Rothbarth child rearing expenditure methodology.

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 Ohio 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 Ohio?

The duration of a divorce in Ohio varies significantly. An uncontested divorce (dissolution) can be finalized in as little as 30 days after filing, but typically takes 4 to 12 months. Contested divorces, especially those involving children, can take 12 to 18 months or even longer, up to two years.

Do I need a lawyer to get divorced in Ohio?

While Ohio law allows individuals to file for divorce without an attorney, it is generally not recommended, especially in contested cases or those involving complex assets or children. A lawyer can ensure all legal requirements are met, protect your rights, and help navigate the complexities of property division, spousal support, and child custody.

Is Ohio a no-fault divorce state?

Yes, Ohio is a no-fault divorce state. You can obtain a divorce based on 'incompatibility' or 'living separate and apart for one year' without proving fault. However, Ohio also allows for fault-based divorces on grounds such as adultery, extreme cruelty, or abandonment.

How is property divided in Ohio divorce?

In Ohio, marital property is divided using the principle of equitable distribution, meaning it is divided fairly, but not necessarily equally. The court first identifies marital and separate property, then divides the marital property equitably, considering factors such as the duration of the marriage, assets and liabilities, and any financial misconduct.

What is the difference between divorce and dissolution of marriage in Ohio?

In Ohio, a 'dissolution of marriage' is a type of no-fault divorce where both spouses agree on all terms of the divorce, including property division, spousal support, and child custody. They present a separation agreement to the court, and the process is typically quicker and less contentious. A 'divorce,' on the other hand, is initiated by one spouse, and if the parties cannot agree on all terms, the court will decide the issues, which can lead to a longer and more adversarial process.

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