District of Columbia Child Support Calculator (2026)
In District of Columbia, child support is based on both parents' combined income and the number of children. The total is split between you based on how much each parent earns, and parenting time can change the amount. Use the free calculator below for an instant estimate.
Calculate Your District of Columbia Child Support
Free estimate — official District of Columbia guidelines
Include wages, salary, bonuses, and other income
How Much Is Child Support in District of Columbia?
If you make $60,000 a year in District of Columbia, child support for 1 child is estimated at $553 per month ($6,636 per year). This assumes the other parent earns approximately $36,000/year. Actual amounts depend on both parents' incomes, custody time, and add-on expenses (child care, health insurance).
$1,000/week ($52,000/year): approximately $507/month for 1 child.
District of Columbia Child Support Estimates by Income (2026)
| Annual Income | 1 Child | 2 Children | 3 Children |
|---|---|---|---|
| $40,000/yr | $430/mo | $596/mo | $705/mo |
| $50,000/yr | $495/mo | $688/mo | $814/mo |
| $60,000/yr | $553/mo | $769/mo | $911/mo |
| $70,000/yr | $604/mo | $841/mo | $998/mo |
| $80,000/yr | $650/mo | $907/mo | $1,076/mo |
| $100,000/yr | $732/mo | $1,023/mo | $1,216/mo |
| $120,000/yr | $803/mo | $1,123/mo | $1,335/mo |
Estimates assume the other parent earns 60% of your income. Actual amounts vary. Compare all states →
How Child Support Is Calculated in District of Columbia
Factors That Affect Child Support in District of Columbia
Technical details and legal basis
District of Columbia uses the Income Shares model (DC Guidelines (DC Code § 16-916.01)) to calculate child support. This model combines both parents' incomes to determine the total obligation, then divides it proportionally based on each parent's share.
Important Notes for District of Columbia
- • The District of Columbia uses the Income Shares model, combining both parents' gross incomes to determine the total child support obligation.
- • Each parent's share is proportional to their percentage of the combined gross income.
- • The schedule covers combined gross monthly incomes up to $20,000. For incomes above this amount, the court may exercise discretion.
- • DC considers the high cost of living in the metropolitan area when evaluating child support obligations.
Example Calculation
Scenario: Parent A earns $5,000/month, Parent B earns $3,000/month, 2 children.
Step 1: Combined income: $8,000
Step 2: Parent A's share: $5,000 / $8,000 = 62.5%
Step 3: Look up basic obligation for $8,000 combined and 2 children.
Step 4: Multiply by Parent A's share (62.5%).
Adjustments for health insurance, child care, and parenting time may apply.
Key Facts: Child Support in District of Columbia
- The District of Columbia uses the Income Shares model, basing child support on both parents' combined gross income.
- The schedule covers combined gross monthly incomes up to $20,000, reflecting the higher cost of living in the DC area.
- Each parent pays their proportional share based on their percentage of the combined gross income.
- DC child support obligations continue until the child turns 21, longer than most states.
- Adjustments are available for health insurance, child care costs, and parenting time over 35% of overnights.
District of Columbia Child Support FAQ
How is child support calculated in the District of Columbia?
What income is used for DC child support?
Does shared custody affect child support in DC?
Can DC child support orders be modified?
How long does child support last in DC?
About This Calculator
Uses the official DC Guidelines (DC Code § 16-916.01) (2024 guidelines). Last verified: 2026-05-30.
Disclaimer: Estimates only, not legal advice. Actual amounts are set by District of Columbia courts. Full disclaimer.
Methodology: Income Shares model per DC Guidelines (DC Code § 16-916.01).