Child Support Calculator Kentucky: If you’ve landed here, chances are you’re a parent or guardian in Kentucky trying to understand how child support works—or maybe you’re just trying to figure out how much child support you may owe or receive. Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Every day, hundreds of people across the Bluegrass State search for answers to questions like, “How much child support will I pay in Kentucky?” or “Is the child support calculator accurate?”

20 most frequently asked questions about the Kentucky Child Support Calculator

1. What is the Child Support Calculator in Kentucky?

Think of the Child Support Calculator as a tool—officially provided by the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services—that helps estimate how much child support one parent might pay to another. It uses a formula based on your income, custody arrangement, number of children, and other expenses.

2. Is the Child Support Calculator legally binding?

Not exactly. The calculator gives an estimated amount based on Kentucky guidelines, but only the court can issue a legally binding child support order. So while it’s a great tool for planning, the final amount can be influenced by a judge’s discretion.

3. How does the Kentucky child support formula work?

Kentucky uses the “Income Shares Model.” Here’s a simplified explanation:

• The incomes of both parents are combined.
• Based on this combined income, a basic child support obligation is calculated.
• That obligation is then split between parents in proportion to their income.
• Adjustments are made based on healthcare, daycare, and insurance expenses.

4. Where can I find the official Kentucky Child Support Calculator?

You can access it on the Kentucky Child Support Enforcement website:
https://csws.chfs.ky.gov/csws/

It’s mobile-friendly and available 24/7.

5. What information do I need to use the calculator?

Here’s what you’ll want to have ready:

• Your gross monthly income
• Other parent’s income (if known)
• Number of children
• Cost of health insurance premiums
• Work-related daycare costs
• Existing child support or alimony payments (if applicable)

6. Does it matter who has custody in Kentucky?

Absolutely! If one parent has sole or primary custody, the non-custodial parent typically pays child support. If it’s a 50/50 split (joint custody), both parents’ financial contributions are more closely reviewed, and support may be adjusted accordingly.

7. What if my income changes? Will the child support change too?

Yes. If there’s a significant change in income—say, job loss or a raise—you can request a modification. But until the court approves that change, you’re still responsible for paying the original amount.

8. How often can child support be modified in Kentucky?

You can request a modification every 3 years or sooner if there’s a significant life change (e.g., job change, new child, disability). Kentucky courts look for a 15% or more difference in payment to consider a review.

9. Is overtime or bonus income included in child support calculations?

Yes, Kentucky typically includes all sources of income, which may include:

• Wages
• Overtime
• Bonuses
• Commissions
• Self-employment earnings
• Even things like pensions and social security

10. Can child support be waived by agreement between parents?

Nope. Even if both parents agree not to exchange child support, the court can still impose it based on the best interest of the child. You can’t “waive” a child’s right to financial support.

11. How is health insurance factored into the calculator?

If one parent pays for the child’s health insurance, the cost is shared between both parents and can reduce or increase the final support amount. You’ll need to enter that expense in the calculator.

12. What about daycare or childcare expenses?

Childcare costs are another adjustment factor. If one parent pays for work-related daycare, that cost is shared proportionally between both parents and factored into the support obligation.

13. Does Kentucky consider other children from different relationships?

Yes, if you’re already paying support for another child, the court may adjust your income accordingly. This prevents unfair financial burden and ensures all children are supported fairly.

14. Is the calculator different for self-employed parents?

Self-employed individuals must report net income after business expenses—but be careful. The courts will look closely to prevent underreporting. Just plugging numbers into the calculator might not reflect what the judge ultimately orders.

15. What if the other parent isn’t reporting their full income?

If you suspect income is being hidden or underreported, you can:

• Request a financial disclosure
• Subpoena employment or tax records
• Ask the court for a forensic income review

The judge can “impute” income if underemployment is found.

16. Does the Kentucky calculator consider parenting time (overnights)?

While Kentucky does consider shared parenting time, the calculator itself doesn’t automatically adjust based on overnights. However, judges can make adjustments if there’s a substantial shared custody arrangement.

17. How long does child support last in Kentucky?

In most cases, child support continues until the child turns 18, or until high school graduation, whichever comes later. If the child has special needs, support may extend longer.

18. What happens if I don’t pay court-ordered child support?

Late payments can lead to:

• Wage garnishment
• License suspension
• Tax refund interception
• Jail time in extreme cases

Using the calculator doesn’t replace the legal order—you must follow what the court says.

19. Can I use the calculator before going to court or mediation?

Yes—and you absolutely should! It’s a great way to come prepared. Knowing the estimated amount can help you during:

• Mediation
• Custody negotiations
• Drafting parenting agreements

It shows the judge or mediator that you’ve done your homework.

20. Is the Kentucky Child Support Calculator accurate for everyone?

It gives a great estimate, but every family is unique. The final child support amount depends on your:

• Actual income proof
• Custody arrangement
• Parenting schedule
• Judge’s discretion

Always treat it as a starting point, not the final word.

Final Thoughts: Why the Kentucky Child Support Calculator Matters

Whether you’re a parent trying to provide for your child or just planning ahead, the Kentucky Child Support Calculator is your best friend. It offers a realistic glimpse into what the court might order—and using it before court can save time, money, and conflict.

But remember: the court always has the final say.

So, use the calculator to get clarity, but consult a family law attorney or your local child support office for anything formal. At the end of the day, the goal is the same: to support your child’s well-being in a fair and balanced way.