In New Jersey, child support is determined using the Income Shares Model, which aims to ensure that children receive the same proportion of parental income they would have if their parents lived together. The guidelines are detailed in Appendix IX-A of the New Jersey Court Rules and are designed to promote consistency and fairness in support awards.
Key Components of the Guidelines
- Combined Net Income: The court calculates each parent’s net income by subtracting allowable deductions (such as taxes, mandatory union dues, and existing support obligations) from their gross income. The combined net income is then used to determine the total child support obligation.
- Proportional Sharing: Each parent is responsible for a portion of the child support obligation proportional to their share of the combined net income. For instance, if one parent earns 60% of the combined income, they would be responsible for 60% of the child support amount.
- Parenting Time Adjustments: The amount of time each parent spends with the child can affect the support calculation. If the non-custodial parent has substantial overnight parenting time, the support obligation may be adjusted to reflect shared expenses during those periods.
- Additional Expenses: Certain costs, such as child care, health insurance premiums for the child, and extraordinary medical expenses, are added to the basic support obligation and divided between the parents in proportion to their income.
Duration of Support
Child support in New Jersey typically continues until the child turns 19. However, support may extend up to age 23 if the child is still in high school, attending full-time post-secondary education, or has a physical or mental disability that requires continued support. 
Modifications and Enforcement
Support orders can be reviewed and modified if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a change in income, employment status, or parenting time. Additionally, support orders are eligible for review every three years by the board of social services. 
Enforcement mechanisms for unpaid child support include wage garnishment, interception of tax refunds, suspension of driver’s or professional licenses, and even legal action. 
Estimating Support
For an estimate of potential child support obligations, the New Jersey Child Support Guidelines Calculator is available online. This tool provides an approximation based on the information provided but does not guarantee the amount that will be ordered by the court. 
Understanding these guidelines is crucial for parents navigating child support matters in New Jersey. Consulting with a family law attorney can provide personalized guidance tailored to individual circumstances.
We have over 25 years of experience in calculating child support for NJ parents.
