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South Dakota Child Support Calculator (2026)

In South Dakota, 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
Take-home pay (after taxes)
Last updated
2024
Verified
2026-05-30

Source: SD Guidelines (SDCL 25-7-6.2)

Calculate Your South Dakota Child Support

Free estimate — official South Dakota guidelines

Your income after taxes and required deductions

How Much Is Child Support in South Dakota?

If you make $60,000 a year in South Dakota, child support for 1 child is estimated at $513 per month ($6,156 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 $469/month for 1 child.

South Dakota Child Support Estimates by Income (2026)

Annual Income 1 Child 2 Children 3 Children
$40,000/yr $397/mo $549/mo $648/mo
$50,000/yr $458/mo $636/mo $753/mo
$60,000/yr $513/mo $713/mo $843/mo
$70,000/yr $561/mo $779/mo $923/mo
$80,000/yr $604/mo $841/mo $996/mo
$100,000/yr $642/mo $896/mo $1,061/mo
$120,000/yr $643/mo $896/mo $1,061/mo

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

How Child Support Is Calculated in South Dakota

Factors That Affect Child Support in South Dakota

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

South Dakota uses the Income Shares model (SD Guidelines (SDCL 25-7-6.2)) 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 South Dakota

  • South Dakota uses the Income Shares model, combining both parents' net incomes to determine the total child support obligation.
  • Each parent's share is proportional to their percentage of the combined net income.
  • The schedule covers combined net monthly incomes up to $12,000. For incomes above this amount, the court uses discretion.

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 South Dakota

  • South Dakota uses the Income Shares model, basing child support on both parents' combined net income.
  • The state schedule covers combined net monthly incomes up to $12,000.
  • Each parent pays their proportional share based on their percentage of the combined net income.
  • South Dakota includes adjustments for health insurance, child care costs, and parenting time.
  • A self-support reserve ensures the paying parent retains enough income for basic living expenses.

South Dakota Child Support FAQ

How is child support calculated in South Dakota?
South Dakota uses the Income Shares model. Both parents' net incomes are combined, and a basic child support obligation is determined from the state schedule (covering combined net incomes up to $12,000/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 is net income for South Dakota child support?
South Dakota uses net income, which is gross income minus federal and state income taxes, Social Security taxes, Medicare taxes, and mandatory retirement contributions. All sources of income are considered, including wages, self-employment income, bonuses, and investment income.
Does shared custody affect child support in South Dakota?
Yes, South Dakota considers parenting time when calculating child support. If 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 South Dakota child support be modified?
Yes, child support orders in South Dakota can be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances. This includes significant income changes, changes in custody or parenting time, or changes in the children's needs. The Department of Social Services can review orders for modification.
How long does child support last in South Dakota?
In South Dakota, child support typically continues until the child turns 18, or until age 19 if the child is still attending high school. Support may continue for adult children with disabilities who are unable to support themselves.

About This Calculator

Uses the official SD Guidelines (SDCL 25-7-6.2) (2024 guidelines). Last verified: 2026-05-30.

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

Methodology: Income Shares model per SD Guidelines (SDCL 25-7-6.2).

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