If you're asking, "How much is child support for one child in Massachusetts?" you're looking for a number that can't be found in a single sentence. The amount is not a fixed dollar figure, but rather a calculation based on the official Massachusetts Child Support Guidelines.

The guidelines use a modified Income Shares Model, meaning the final number aims to estimate the amount that would have been spent on the child if the parents were still living together, and then divides that cost proportionally based on each parent's income.

Here is a breakdown of what you need to know, including the key factors that determine the amount and where to find the essential resources.

The Massachusetts Child Support Formula: Key Factors

Massachusetts courts are generally required to follow the Child Support Guidelines, which take into account several critical variables to arrive at a weekly support amount. The formula is applied via a detailed Child Support Guidelines Worksheet.

For a single child, here are the main factors the court considers:

  1. Both Parents' Gross Weekly Income: This is the most significant factor. "Gross income" includes wages, salaries, bonuses, commissions, and other sources before taxes and deductions.
  2. Health Insurance Costs: Premiums paid by either parent for the child's health, dental, and vision insurance are factored in.
  3. Childcare Costs: Reasonable child care expenses (for work or education) are included in the calculation.
  4. The Number of Children: While you are asking about one child, the guidelines account for the total number of children eligible for support.
  5. Parenting Time Arrangement (Physical Custody):
    • Primary Physical Custody (One parent has the child for approximately two-thirds or more of the time): The paying parent generally pays the guideline amount to the primary custodial parent.
    • Shared Physical Custody (Each parent has the child for at least one-third of the time): A different calculation is applied, which typically results in a lower support order from the higher-earning parent, as both are assumed to be directly covering expenses during their parenting time.

The Easiest Way to Estimate the Amount

Because the calculation is complex and depends on your unique financial situation, the most practical first step is to use the state's official tool.

  • Official Massachusetts Trial Court Child Support Guidelines Worksheet: This is the exact worksheet judges use. You can access it and fill it out to get an estimated figure:Massachusetts Trial Court Child Support Guidelines Worksheet(This is typically a PDF link, you may need to search for the most current version on the Mass.gov site).
  • Online Calculator: Many legal websites also offer online calculators that follow the state's guidelines, which can provide a quick, preliminary estimate. A simple search for "Massachusetts child support calculator" will provide options, but always verify results against the official state guidelines.

Important Notes on Child Support in Massachusetts

  • Minimum Support: Even if a parent has a very low income (typically less than $250 per week), the guidelines generally require a minimum weekly support payment of at least **$12 per week**.
  • High-Income Families: The guidelines cap out at a combined parental income of **$400,000 annually** ($7,692 per week). If parents earn more than this, the judge has the discretion to order additional support beyond the formula's result to meet the child’s needs and maintain the family's standard of living.
  • Deviation from the Guidelines: A judge can order an amount different from the calculation (a "deviation") if they find the guideline amount would be unjust or inappropriate. This requires specific written findings explaining the reason for the deviation.

Official Resources and Applicable Law

For the most accurate and authoritative information, always refer to the Massachusetts government resources:

  • Massachusetts Child Support Guidelines: This is the full text of the guidelines that the courts use to determine the support amount. Massachusetts Child Support Guidelines
  • Massachusetts Department of Revenue (DOR) - Child Support Services Division (CSS): This division can help parents with establishing, enforcing, and modifying child support orders.Mass.gov - Child Support Services Division
  • Massachusetts General Laws (MGL) Chapter 208, Section 28: This statute, in the context of divorce, grants the court the authority to make orders concerning the maintenance and support of minor children.MGL c. 208, § 28(You can search for this on the official Massachusetts Legislature website).

Disclaimer: This blog post provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Child support calculations are case-specific, and you should always consult with a qualified attorney or contact the Massachusetts Department of Revenue's Child Support Services Division for advice on your individual situation.

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