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Rhode Island Child Support Calculator (2026)

In Rhode Island, 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
2026-05-30

Source: RI Guidelines (RI Family Court Admin Order 2023-02)

Calculate Your Rhode Island Child Support

Free estimate — official Rhode Island guidelines

Include wages, salary, bonuses, and other income

How Much Is Child Support in Rhode Island?

If you make $60,000 a year in Rhode Island, child support for 1 child is estimated at $534 per month ($6,408 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 $491/month for 1 child.

Rhode Island Child Support Estimates by Income (2026)

Annual Income 1 Child 2 Children 3 Children
$40,000/yr $417/mo $577/mo $682/mo
$50,000/yr $479/mo $665/mo $787/mo
$60,000/yr $534/mo $743/mo $880/mo
$70,000/yr $584/mo $813/mo $964/mo
$80,000/yr $629/mo $878/mo $1,041/mo
$100,000/yr $708/mo $988/mo $1,173/mo
$120,000/yr $751/mo $1,049/mo $1,246/mo

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

How Child Support Is Calculated in Rhode Island

Factors That Affect Child Support in Rhode Island

Both parents' gross monthly incomes
Number of children requiring support
Health insurance costs for the children
Work-related child care costs
Parenting time arrangement
Other child support obligations
Extraordinary medical or educational expenses
Special needs of the child
Technical details and legal basis

Rhode Island uses the Income Shares model (RI Guidelines (RI Family Court Admin Order 2023-02)) 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 Rhode Island

  • Rhode Island 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 $15,000. For incomes above this amount, the court may exercise discretion.
  • Rhode Island's guidelines are established by Family Court Administrative Order and are reviewed periodically.

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 Rhode Island

  • Rhode Island uses the Income Shares model, basing child support on both parents' combined gross income.
  • The state schedule covers combined gross monthly incomes up to $15,000.
  • Each parent pays their proportional share based on their percentage of the combined gross income.
  • Rhode Island includes adjustments for health insurance, child care costs, and parenting time.
  • Guidelines are established by Family Court Administrative Order and reviewed periodically.

Rhode Island Child Support FAQ

How is child support calculated in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island uses the Income Shares model. Both parents' gross incomes are combined, and a basic child support obligation is determined from the state schedule (covering combined gross incomes up to $15,000/month). Each parent pays their proportional share based on their percentage of the combined income. Adjustments are made for health insurance, child care, and parenting time.
What income is used for Rhode Island child support?
Rhode Island uses gross income from all sources, including wages, salaries, bonuses, commissions, self-employment income, rental income, interest, dividends, pension and retirement benefits, Social Security benefits, and workers' compensation. The court may impute income if a parent is voluntarily underemployed or unemployed.
Does shared custody affect child support in Rhode Island?
Yes, Rhode Island considers parenting time when calculating child support. When the non-custodial parent has the children for a significant portion of the time (generally more than 28% of overnights), the court may adjust the child support obligation to reflect the direct costs incurred during that time.
Can Rhode Island child support be modified?
Yes, Rhode Island child support orders can be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as a significant change in income, a change in the child's needs, or a change in the custody arrangement. Either parent can file a motion to modify with the Family Court.
How long does child support last in Rhode Island?
In Rhode Island, child support generally continues until the child turns 18. However, the court may order support to continue until age 19 if the child is still completing high school. Support may also be ordered for adult children with disabilities who cannot support themselves.

About This Calculator

Uses the official RI Guidelines (RI Family Court Admin Order 2023-02) (2024 guidelines). Last verified: 2026-05-30.

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

Methodology: Income Shares model per RI Guidelines (RI Family Court Admin Order 2023-02).

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