Child Support in Missouri
State-specific overview · Family Law
Missouri uses income shares model with support capped at combined parental income of $235,000 and automatic adjustment provisions.
How Missouri treats Child Support
The state calculates support as a percentage of combined parental income (17–32% depending on number of children), with adjustments for custody time and health insurance. Child support generally terminates at age 18 unless the child is still in high school, in which case it continues until graduation or age 19. Missouri law permits automatic adjustments when income changes by 10% or more, or upon request after three years.
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 Missouri.