Child Support in North Dakota
State-specific overview · Family Law
North Dakota uses income shares model; obligor pays percentage of combined income based on number of children.
How North Dakota treats Child Support
North Dakota applies the income shares method, with support percentages ranging from 17% of combined income for one child to 35% for five or more children. The state adjusts the obligor's share based on the percentage of parenting time; more parenting time reduces the support obligation. Child support continues until age 18, or until age 19 if the child is still in high school. Either parent may request modification if circumstances change materially or if three years have passed since the last order.
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 North Dakota.