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Minnesota Child Support Calculator (2026)

In Minnesota, 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.

How it's calculated
Both parents' income combined
Income used
Before-tax (gross)
Last updated
2024
Verified
2026-05-31

Source: Minnesota Statute 518A.35

Calculate Your Minnesota Child Support

Free estimate — official Minnesota guidelines

Include wages, salary, bonuses, and other income

How Much Is Child Support in Minnesota?

If you make $60,000 a year in Minnesota, child support for 1 child is estimated at $691 per month ($8,292 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 $650/month for 1 child.

Minnesota Child Support Estimates by Income (2026)

Annual Income 1 Child 2 Children 3 Children
$40,000/yr $547/mo $762/mo $864/mo
$50,000/yr $641/mo $897/mo $1,023/mo
$60,000/yr $691/mo $968/mo $1,103/mo
$70,000/yr $743/mo $1,040/mo $1,186/mo
$80,000/yr $794/mo $1,112/mo $1,268/mo
$100,000/yr $897/mo $1,257/mo $1,432/mo
$120,000/yr $999/mo $1,399/mo $1,596/mo

Estimates assume the other parent earns 60% of your income. Actual amounts vary. Compare all states →

How Child Support Is Calculated in Minnesota

Factors That Affect Child Support in Minnesota

Both parents' gross incomes (PICS)
Number of children
Parenting time percentage
Health and dental insurance costs for children
Work-related child care costs
Other support obligations
Social Security benefits received on behalf of the child
Special needs of the child
Technical details and legal basis

Minnesota uses the Income Shares model (Minnesota Statute 518A.35) 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 Minnesota

  • Minnesota uses the Income Shares model with a formula that applies declining percentages at higher income levels.
  • Minnesota calculates "Parental Income for Child Support" (PICS), which adjusts gross income using standardized tax tables.
  • The self-support reserve is set at 120% of the federal poverty level for one person.
  • Minnesota provides a parenting time adjustment based on the percentage of court-ordered parenting time.

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 Minnesota

  • Minnesota uses the Income Shares model with declining percentage rates at higher income levels.
  • The basic obligation for 1 child ranges from $50/month at $0 combined income to $1,839/month at $20,000 combined monthly PICS (MN Stat. 518A.35).
  • Minnesota calculates "Parental Income for Child Support" (PICS) by adjusting gross income with standardized tax tables.
  • The self-support reserve is 120% of the federal poverty level, approximately $1,596 per month (2026 FPL).
  • A parenting time adjustment is available when the non-custodial parent has more than 10% of court-ordered parenting time.

Minnesota Child Support FAQ

How is child support calculated in Minnesota?
Minnesota uses the Income Shares model. Both parents' incomes are combined to determine the basic child support obligation using statutory percentages that decline at higher income levels. Each parent pays their proportional share. Minnesota uses "Parental Income for Child Support" (PICS), which is gross income adjusted by standardized tax tables.
How much is child support for 1 kid in Minnesota?
For 1 child in Minnesota, the basic obligation depends on both parents' combined PICS. At $5,000 combined monthly income, the obligation is approximately $818. At $10,000, it's approximately $1,230. The non-custodial parent pays their proportional share of this amount.
Does parenting time affect child support in Minnesota?
Yes. Minnesota provides a parenting time adjustment when the non-custodial parent has court-ordered parenting time exceeding 10% of the time. The adjustment reflects the direct costs that parent incurs during their parenting time and can significantly reduce the child support obligation.
What is the self-support reserve in Minnesota?
Minnesota sets the self-support reserve at 120% of the federal poverty level for one person, approximately $1,494 per month. If the obligor's PICS falls below this threshold, the child support obligation is reduced to ensure the parent can meet their own basic needs.

About This Calculator

Uses the official Minnesota Statute 518A.35 (2024 guidelines). Last verified: 2026-05-31.

Disclaimer: Estimates only, not legal advice. Actual amounts are set by Minnesota courts. Full disclaimer.

Methodology: Income Shares model per Minnesota Statute 518A.35.

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