New York
How is child support calculated in New York?
Quick answer
New York calculates child support under the Child Support Standards Act in Family Court Act § 413. The court adds both parents’ incomes, applies a percentage based on the number of children (17% for one, 25% for two, 29% for three, 31% for four, and no less than 35% for five or more) to combined income up to a state-published cap, and divides the result between the parents in proportion to their incomes.
Researched by Dan Martin, Legal Researcher · Published by Onbello Legal · Last updated October 2026
Income above the cap
For combined parental income above the cap, the statute directs the court to decide support through the factors listed in § 413 and/or the child support percentage. The cap is published by the state and revised every two years, so check the current figure before estimating.
Add-ons
Beyond the basic obligation, § 413 addresses reasonable child care expenses when the custodial parent works or is in qualifying education or training, health insurance for the child, and, where the court finds it appropriate, educational expenses.
Who decides
In Family Court, support cases are usually heard by a support magistrate. Both parents must disclose their finances, including a sworn statement of net worth, pay stubs and tax returns, under Family Court Act § 424-a. Support continues until the child is 21 unless the child is emancipated earlier.
Tools and resources
Where to check this
Forms, deadlines, and local rules change. Verify anything on this page against the official self-help resources for your state before you rely on it.
This page is general legal information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney–client relationship. Laws and local rules vary and change. For advice about your situation, consult a licensed family-law attorney in your state.