How Is Child Support Calculated In Colorado?

In Colorado, child support is calculated using a specific formula established by state law. The goal is to ensure children receive financial support that reflects both parents' ability to contribute. Understanding this process can help you prepare for what to expect during your divorce or custody proceedings.

The Income Shares Model

Colorado uses the "income shares model" for calculating child support. This approach is based on the principle that children should receive the same proportion of parental income they would have received if the parents lived together. The calculation considers:

• Combined Adjusted Gross Income: Both parents' gross incomes are added together after certain adjustments
• Number of Children: Support amounts increase with additional children
• Parenting Time: The number of overnight stays each parent has affects the calculation
• Healthcare Costs: Health insurance premiums for the children are factored in
• Childcare Expenses: Work-related childcare costs are included

What Counts as Gross Income?

Gross income for child support purposes includes:

• Wages, salaries, and tips
• Commissions and bonuses
• Self-employment income
• Rental income
• Investment income and dividends
• Pension and retirement benefits
• Social Security benefits
• Workers' compensation and disability payments
• Unemployment benefits

Adjustments to Income

Certain deductions are made from gross income before calculating support:

• Maintenance (alimony) actually paid
• Child support paid for children from other relationships
• Certain business expenses for self-employed parents

The Role of Parenting Time

Colorado's child support formula accounts for the amount of time each parent spends with the children. When a parent has more than 92 overnights per year with the child, the support amount is typically reduced to reflect that parent's direct expenditures during their parenting time.

Deviations from the Guidelines

Courts may deviate from the standard calculation when circumstances warrant. Factors that might justify a deviation include:

• Extraordinary medical expenses
• Special educational needs
• Significant travel costs for parenting time
• A child's independent income or resources
• Shared physical care arrangements

Using the Colorado Child Support Calculator

Colorado provides an official child support calculator that courts and attorneys use to determine support amounts. While online calculators can give you a general estimate, working with an experienced family law attorney ensures all relevant factors are properly considered in your specific situation.