Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed November 30, 2018
This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw’s team of legal writers and attorneys and in accordance with our editorial standards.
The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area.
In Washington state, both parents are responsible for supporting their child until the child reaches the age of 18 or graduates high school. The obligation can take the form of a child support payment where one parent (the obligor) pays the other parent (the obligee) who is usually the custodial parent for their portion of the expenses used to raise the child.
You can get an estimate of the amount of the obligation by using the state's child support calculator, which uses the child support economic table. The economic table is based on the following factors:
The starting point for calculating the child support amount is the parents' income: gross and net. First, the gross income of both parents is determined. After deductions are made, the net income is determined and the support is calculated by a formula using the state support guidelines that reveals the presumed correct amount. However, the presumption can be overcome with a written finding that shows the amount is unjust.
Because the statutes that govern child support calculations are detailed and lengthy, it's efficient to refer to a condensed version of the content. The chart below provides a helpful guide to Washington's child support calculations.
Statutes |
Washington Revised Code: |
Parents' Combined Monthly Income
|
Gross Income includes, but is not limited to the following:
Deductions includes, but is not limited to the following:
|
Calculations Using the Economic Table |
The basic child support obligation from the economic table between the parents is based on each parents' share of the combined monthly net income. Parents can agree to pay more than the presumed amount, but can't pay less. Courts may adjust the payments according to the best interests of the child and each parents' needs. |
Not Included in the Economic Table |
Some expenses aren't included in the economic table, but should be shared by the parents in the same proportion as the basic child support obligation. Health care costs including:
Day care and special child rearing expenses, including:
|
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.
Knowing how child support is calculated is significant because it impacts your child's well-being, but using a Washington child support calculator may not be enough to give you an estimate of what may be owed. If you have concerns about child support calculations or other support issues, contact an experienced Washington attorney near you today.
Contact a qualified attorney.
Get tailored family law advice and ask a lawyer questions. Many attorneys offer free consultations.