Child Support in New Hampshire
State-specific overview · Family Law
New Hampshire uses income shares model; support extends to age 23 if child attends college full-time.
How New Hampshire treats Child Support
New Hampshire applies the income shares formula based on combined parental income to calculate baseline support. Support ordinarily ends at age 18, but continues through age 23 if the child attends college or university full-time and remains dependent. The state requires both parents to contribute to college expenses proportionally to their incomes when a child pursues higher education. Courts may adjust support for substantial changes in income or custody.
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 New Hampshire.