Child Support in Hawaii
State-specific overview · Family Law
Hawaii uses income shares model and caps child support at the highest combined parental income level specified in guidelines.
How Hawaii treats Child Support
Hawaii applies the income shares model, where both parents' incomes determine the support obligation based on statutory guidelines. The state caps combined parental income at a specific threshold (currently around $10,000 monthly) for guideline calculations, though courts may deviate for higher incomes. Child support continues until the child turns 18 or graduates high school, whichever is later. Hawaii courts consider the standard of living the child would have enjoyed if the parents remained together.
The general definition of Child Support
Court-ordered payments from one parent to the other for a child's living expenses.
Child support is money that a court requires one parent to pay to the other parent (or guardian) to help cover the child's expenses like food, housing, education, and healthcare. The amount is usually calculated using state guidelines that consider both parents' incomes, the number of children, and custody arrangements. Child support continues until the child reaches the age of majority, typically 18 or 21 depending on the state. It's a legal obligation separate from custody decisions.
Read the full Child Support entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Hawaii.