New Jersey Child Support Guidelines

By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by Nicole Prebeck, Esq. | Last reviewed January 31, 2023

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Child support refers to court-ordered payments made by the non-custodial parent to help the custodial parent with the costs of raising their child. In New Jersey, child support obligations normally last until the child turns 19 years old, but can continue up past that age if the child is still in high school or has certain physical or mental conditions that require extra support.

While each case is unique, New Jersey courts calculate how much is paid by the obligor (the person making the payments) by following specific guidelines, or formulas. Read on to learn more about child support guidelines in New Jersey.

How to Request Child Support in New Jersey

There are several ways a parent can receive child support in New Jersey. If both parents agree on the terms, they may ask a judge to approve a support order in a civil case such as a divorce or other family law proceeding. However, the majority of cases start by completing an online application for child support or by submitting a completed paper form of the application to the local Child Support Agency (CSA).

The CSA can help a parent locate the noncustodial parent; establish paternity for children born outside of marriage; establish support obligations, collection, and distribution of support; and enforcement of support obligations through the Probation Division.

New Jersey Child Support Guidelines at a Glance

If you're trying to obtain child support, particularly if the non-custodial parent isn't cooperating, you likely don't have the time or energy to decipher dense legal texts. That's why we've provided the key details of New Jersey's child support guidelines in the table below.

Statute

 Using the best interests of the child, the court will establish paternity, determine custody, calculate child support, set parenting time, and rule on any other outstanding expenses. (New Jersey Statutes: Title 9, Section 17-53)

Main Factors in Determining Child Support

New Jersey courts calculate child support using a complex formula (see the state's online support calculator to get an estimate) based on the Use of Child Support Guidelines, but the most significant factors include the following:

  • Each parent's income
  • Daycare expenses
  • Medical insurance costs
  • Any applicable Social Security benefits
  • Living arrangements of the children
  • Any other factors considered relevant by the court

What is Included in a Support Order?

Generally, child support payments are intended to cover the following costs pertaining to the child(ren) named in the order:

  • Basic necessities (food, clothing, shelter)
  • Health insurance
  • Basic education expenses (school supplies, transportation, etc.)
  • Child care expenses
  • Extraordinary medical expenses
  • Visitation travel costs
  • Any other expenses considered necessary to support the child's best interests

New Jersey Child Support Guidelines: Guides, Worksheets, and Tables

New Jersey provides several tables and worksheets to help parents determine their (or the other parent's) child support obligations, including the following:

Note: Be advised that these amounts and formulas are subject to change with adjustments for inflation and changes in the law.

How Long Must a Parent Pay Child Support?
  • Until the child reaches the age of 19 or until the child graduates high school.
  • Support may continue past 19 if the child has certain physical or emotional challenges.

Can a Support Order be Changed?

Yes. Either party can ask to schedule a modification conference. The term "changed circumstances" means a permanent, substantial (major), and unanticipated life change.

Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.

Research the Law

New Jersey Child Support Guidelines: Related Resources

Get a Handle on Your New Jersey Support Case: Contact an Attorney

If you're a single parent trying to raise a child, chances are you're pressed for time and short on cash. Child support payments can make a big difference and are required by law. Because of the high stakes involved, it may be a good idea to consult an experienced New Jersey child support attorney if you have questions about your specific situation.

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