Child Support in Massachusetts
State-specific overview · Family Law
Massachusetts uses income shares model and caps child support at combined parental income of $163,000 annually.
How Massachusetts treats Child Support
The state applies a percentage-based formula to combined parental income, with guidelines specifying 17–25% for one child depending on custody arrangement. Child support continues until age 23 if the child remains in secondary school full-time. Massachusetts courts may adjust support based on health insurance costs, childcare expenses, and other relevant factors beyond the income cap threshold.
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 Massachusetts.