Tennessee Child Support Calculator (2026)
In Tennessee, 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.
Source: Tennessee Child Support Guidelines (Tenn. Code Ann. § 36-5-101)
Calculate Your Tennessee Child Support
Free estimate — official Tennessee guidelines
Include wages, salary, bonuses, and other income
How Much Is Child Support in Tennessee?
If you make $60,000 a year in Tennessee, child support for 1 child is estimated at $574 per month ($6,888 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 $521/month for 1 child.
Tennessee Child Support Estimates by Income (2026)
| Annual Income | 1 Child | 2 Children | 3 Children |
|---|---|---|---|
| $40,000/yr | $432/mo | $629/mo | $727/mo |
| $50,000/yr | $507/mo | $739/mo | $854/mo |
| $60,000/yr | $574/mo | $838/mo | $969/mo |
| $70,000/yr | $636/mo | $927/mo | $1,074/mo |
| $80,000/yr | $691/mo | $1,009/mo | $1,169/mo |
| $100,000/yr | $792/mo | $1,157/mo | $1,341/mo |
| $120,000/yr | $881/mo | $1,288/mo | $1,493/mo |
Estimates assume the other parent earns 60% of your income. Actual amounts vary. Compare all states →
How Child Support Is Calculated in Tennessee
Factors That Affect Child Support in Tennessee
Technical details and legal basis
Tennessee uses the Income Shares model (Tennessee Child Support Guidelines (Tenn. Code Ann. § 36-5-101)) 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 Tennessee
- • Tennessee uses the Income Shares model, combining both parents' adjusted gross incomes to determine the total child support obligation.
- • Adjusted gross income is calculated by subtracting pre-existing child support orders, alimony paid, and self-employment taxes from gross income.
- • Tennessee recognizes three parenting time categories: Standard (0-92 days), Alternate Residential Parent (93-109 days), and Equal Parenting (110+ days), each with different adjustment calculations.
- • The court may deviate from guidelines based on extraordinary educational expenses, travel costs for visitation, or the child's special needs.
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 Tennessee
- Tennessee uses the Income Shares model, meaning child support is based on both parents' combined adjusted gross income.
- The basic child support obligation for 1 child ranges from approximately $162/month at $1,000 combined income to $1,935/month at $30,000 combined monthly income.
- Each parent pays their proportional share of the total obligation based on their percentage of the combined income.
- Tennessee has three parenting time categories: Standard (0-92 days), Alternate Residential (93-109 days), and Equal Parenting (110+ days), each affecting the calculation differently.
- A self-support reserve ensures the paying parent retains enough income to meet their own basic living needs.
Tennessee Child Support FAQ
How is child support calculated in Tennessee?
What are the parenting time categories in Tennessee?
What income is used for Tennessee child support?
Can child support be modified in Tennessee?
How long does child support last in Tennessee?
About This Calculator
Uses the official Tennessee Child Support Guidelines (Tenn. Code Ann. § 36-5-101) (2024 guidelines). Last verified: 2026-05-30.
Disclaimer: Estimates only, not legal advice. Actual amounts are set by Tennessee courts. Full disclaimer.
Methodology: Income Shares model per Tennessee Child Support Guidelines (Tenn. Code Ann. § 36-5-101).