Calculate Child Support
Before taxes. Include wages, self-employment, bonuses.
Louisiana uses the Income Shares — both incomes required.
0 = no custody · 91 = 25% · 182 = 50/50 · 365 = full custody
$0
estimated monthly support payment
⚠️ Estimate only. Actual court-ordered amounts may vary. Verify with a licensed Louisiana family law attorney.
ℹ️ Louisiana uses the Income Shares — Louisiana uses Income Shares based on combined adjusted gross income.
How Child Support Works in Louisiana
Louisiana uses the Income Shares to determine child support obligations.
The Income Shares model combines both parents' incomes, finds the basic support obligation from a state schedule, then divides it proportionally. More parenting time (overnights) reduces the non-custodial parent's payment through a parenting time credit.
How Louisiana Compares to Other States
See how Louisiana's child support rules compare to other states.
| State | Formula | Support Ends | Arrears Rate | Mod. Threshold |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ★ Louisiana (you) | Income Shares | 18 | 6% | 25% |
| Delaware | Melson Formula | 18 | 5% | 10% |
| Idaho | Percentage of Income | 18 | 5% | 15% |
| Michigan | Income Shares | 18 | 5% | 10% |
| Ohio | Income Shares | 18 | 5% | 10% |
| Alaska | Percentage of Income | 18 | 6% | 15% |
| Florida | Income Shares | 18 | 6% | 15% |
| New Hampshire | Income Shares | 18 | 6% | 15% |
| North Dakota | Income Shares | 18 | 6% | 10% |
Showing 8 comparison states. View all 50 states →
Frequently Asked Questions
How is child support calculated in Louisiana?
Louisiana uses the Income Shares model. Louisiana uses Income Shares based on combined adjusted gross income.
When does child support end in Louisiana?
Child support generally ends when the child turns 18 in Louisiana.
Can I modify child support in Louisiana?
Yes. Louisiana requires a 25% or greater change in income to qualify. Use our modification checker →
Does 50/50 custody eliminate child support in Louisiana?
Not automatically. The higher-earning parent typically still pays support with 50/50 custody. See our 50/50 guide →
What income is used for child support in Louisiana?
Income includes wages, self-employment, bonuses, rental income, unemployment benefits, disability payments, and Social Security. Courts may impute income if a parent is voluntarily underemployed.