Child Support in New York
State-specific overview · Family Law
New York caps combined parental income at $163,000 (adjusted annually) for guideline child support calculations.
How New York treats Child Support
New York uses the income shares model with a statutory cap on combined parental income; amounts above the cap are discretionary. The state calculates support based on a percentage of combined parental income: 17% for one child, 25% for two, 29% for three, 31% for four, and 35% for five or more. Courts may deviate from guidelines if the amount is "unjust or inappropriate." Child support generally continues until age 21 if the child is still in high school or college.
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 York.