Montana Child Support Calculator (2026)
In Montana, the formula first makes sure each parent can cover their own basic living costs, then sets support for the children from both incomes, plus a share of any extra income. Use the free calculator below for an instant estimate.
Calculate Your Montana Child Support
Free estimate — official Montana guidelines
Include wages, salary, bonuses, and other income
How Much Is Child Support in Montana?
If you make $60,000 a year in Montana, child support for 1 child is estimated at $780 per month ($9,360 per year). Calculated after applying the self-support allowance and standard of living adjustment.
$1,000/week ($52,000/year): approximately $699/month for 1 child.
Montana Child Support Estimates by Income (2026)
| Annual Income | 1 Child | 2 Children | 3 Children |
|---|---|---|---|
| $40,000/yr | $606/mo | $1,038/mo | $1,405/mo |
| $50,000/yr | $680/mo | $1,135/mo | $1,522/mo |
| $60,000/yr | $780/mo | $1,278/mo | $1,702/mo |
| $70,000/yr | $887/mo | $1,435/mo | $1,902/mo |
| $80,000/yr | $997/mo | $1,599/mo | $2,112/mo |
| $100,000/yr | $1,223/mo | $1,935/mo | $2,543/mo |
| $120,000/yr | $1,452/mo | $2,278/mo | $2,983/mo |
Based on the Melson Formula with standard assumptions. Compare all states →
How Child Support Is Calculated in Montana
Factors That Affect Child Support in Montana
Technical details and legal basis
Montana uses the Melson Formula model (MT Guidelines (Mont. Code Ann. § 40-4-204)) to calculate child support. This model first ensures each parent retains enough for basic needs (self-support allowance), then calculates the child's primary support need, and applies a standard of living adjustment.
Important Notes for Montana
- • Montana uses the Melson Formula model, which first ensures each parent can meet their own basic needs before calculating child support.
- • The Melson Formula calculates a primary support need for each child, then allocates costs between parents based on their share of combined income.
- • A sliding standard of living adjustment (SOLA) is applied to remaining income: 14% for 1 child, 21% for 2, 27% for 3, 31% for 4, 35% for 5 children.
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 Montana
- Montana uses the Melson Formula, which ensures each parent retains a personal allowance of $1,729 per month (2026) before calculating child support.
- The primary child support allowance is $519 per child per month under the 2026 Montana guidelines.
- A sliding standard of living adjustment (SOLA) is applied: 14% (1 child), 21% (2), 27% (3), 31% (4), 35% (5 children).
- Montana bases calculations on gross income from all sources.
- The Melson Formula provides a three-tier approach: parent self-support, child basic needs, and standard of living sharing.
Montana Child Support FAQ
How is child support calculated in Montana?
What is the Melson Formula used in Montana?
What income is used for Montana child support calculations?
Can Montana child support be modified?
How long does child support last in Montana?
About This Calculator
Uses the official MT Guidelines (Mont. Code Ann. § 40-4-204) (2026 guidelines). Last verified: 2026-05-31.
Disclaimer: Estimates only, not legal advice. Actual amounts are set by Montana courts. Full disclaimer.
Methodology: Melson Formula model per MT Guidelines (Mont. Code Ann. § 40-4-204).