How Washington calculates child support
Washington uses the income shares model — the same method used by 41 US states. The formula combines both parents' gross monthly income, looks up the total child-rearing obligation from Washington's guideline schedule, then splits that obligation proportionally based on each parent's share of the combined income.
How the calculation works in Washington
Both parents' incomes are added together to determine combined monthly income. Washington's guideline tables identify the total monthly cost of raising the children at that income level. Each parent is responsible for the percentage of that total that matches their share of the combined income. The parent with less parenting time pays their share to the parent with more parenting time.
Parenting time adjustment
Washington reduces the paying parent's obligation when they have significant parenting time. Most income shares states begin applying a credit at 20–25% parenting time, with the credit growing as parenting time approaches 50%.
Add-ons
Healthcare premiums for the children and work-related childcare costs are typically added to the base obligation and split proportionally by income in Washington.