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Guideline Estimates · All 50 States + DC

Delaware Child Support Calculator 2026

Every state calculates differently. Enter two incomes and see the real guideline number — with parenting-time credit, add-ons, and the math shown step by step.

Your State

Melson Formula Melson Formula — includes a self-support reserve for both parents.

Parents

$
$

Children & Parenting Time

20%

Over 20% unlocks a parenting-time credit in most states — the slider moves the number fast.

Add-On Expenses monthly, split by income share

$
$
$

Estimated child support

$1,360 / month

≈ $16,322 per year · Melson Formula in Delaware

The math, step by step

Combined monthly income$9,500
Guideline obligation (payer's share)$1,133
Parenting-time credit−$57
Childcare share$189
Health insurance share$95
Extraordinary share$0
Monthly payment$1,360

Income shares

Parent 163.2%
Parent 236.8%

What if we share custody more?

Same incomes, same kids — only parenting time changes.

20% time

$1,360

standard visitation

40% time

$1,134

extended parenting

50% time

$964

equal custody

Educational estimate only — not legal advice. Courts deviate for healthcare, education, and each family's circumstances. Modification usually needs a 10% income change in your state. Consult a licensed family law attorney.

Child Support Calculators by State

Three different calculation models, 51 rulebooks. Open your state for its model, percentages, and modification threshold.

How Child Support Works in Delaware

Melson Formula state. Income Shares, but each parent keeps a self-support reserve for their own basic needs before the split. Melson Formula — includes a self-support reserve for both parents.

The Melson Formula first sets aside a self-support reserve of about $900/month for each parent — the obligation is calculated only from income above that floor, which protects low-income payers.

Modifying an order: Delaware generally requires a 10% change in income before the court will reopen the number.

Support usually ends when the child turns 18 or graduates high school — check your county's practice, and remember that courts can extend support for a child with disabilities.

The Three Models, Side by Side

Which one applies to you depends entirely on your state.

Income Shares

38 states

Both parents' incomes are combined, the guideline cost of raising the children is looked up, and each parent pays their income share.

Percentage of Income

10 states

The non-custodial parent pays a fixed percentage of their own income — set by number of children.

Melson Formula

3 states

Income Shares, but each parent keeps a self-support reserve for their own basic needs before the split.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is child support calculated in Delaware?

Delaware uses the melson formula model. Income Shares, but each parent keeps a self-support reserve for their own basic needs before the split. Melson Formula — includes a self-support reserve for both parents.

What is the Delaware guideline for one child?

There is no flat percentage — the melson formula looks up the combined-income guideline amount and assigns the payer their income share. Enter real incomes above for the exact figure.

When can I modify child support in Delaware?

Delaware generally requires a 10% change in income — or a material change in custody or the child's needs — before a court will revisit the order.

Does shared custody lower support in Delaware?

Yes. Once the paying parent has the children around 20% of the time or more, Delaware courts apply a parenting-time credit; at 50/50 custody the guideline obligation drops roughly 40%. Use the slider above to see the effect on your numbers.
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