Family law
Child support guidelines
The formula each state sets for calculating child support. Federal law requires them, says they must be reviewed at least every four years, and presumes the guideline amount is correct.[1]
In more detail
A court can depart from the guideline amount if it makes a written or on-the-record finding that applying it would be unjust or inappropriate.[1] Florida's guideline amount presumptively sets support, the court may vary it by up to 5% after considering the child's needs and other factors, and by more only with a written finding that the guideline amount would be unjust or inappropriate.[2]
Varies by state
Each state sets its own guideline formula and deviation rules. Find your state’s rules.
Related terms
- Child supportMoney a court orders a parent to pay to help cover a child's living expenses, usually to the parent who has the child most of the time.
- Parenting planA document setting out how parents will raise their child after separating: how decisions are made about things like school and health care, and a schedule of time with each parent.
- Family mediationMediation of family matters such as divorce, property division, parental responsibility, child support, custody and visitation, for married and unmarried people, before and after a judgment.
Read next on MediationList
Sources
The official documents this definition is based on, with the date we last read each one. Definitions are in our own words.
General information, not legal advice. MediationList is not a law firm. Spotted an error? Tell us.
Cite this page
MediationList. (2026, October 28). Child support guidelines: Definition. https://mediationlist.com/glossary/child-support-guidelines/
APA 7th ed. A retrieval date is included only for pages whose content changes, such as maps, data and tools.