Child Support in Idaho
State-specific overview · Family Law
Idaho uses income shares model with mandatory guidelines and allows deviation only when specific statutory factors justify it.
How Idaho treats Child Support
Idaho applies the income shares model under its child support guidelines, which are presumptively correct unless the court finds clear and convincing evidence to deviate. Both parents' gross incomes are combined to determine the support obligation, and the guidelines apply up to a combined income cap set by statute. Child support generally continues until age 18, or age 19 if the child is still in high school. Idaho courts must apply the guidelines and document any deviation from them in writing.
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 Idaho.