Navigating child support can be one of the most complex and emotionally charged aspects of family law. At Hobson & Hobson, P.C., we understand that clarity, transparency, and strategic advocacy are essential for families in Atlanta, Canton, Marietta, Alpharetta, Milton, Roswell, Duluth, and surrounding areas. This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of how child support is calculated in Georgia, what factors influence the amount, and how our innovative, client-focused approach can help you achieve the best possible outcome.

Understanding the Child Support Formula in Georgia

When clients ask, “How is child support calculated?” or “How do they determine how much child support you pay?” the answer begins with Georgia’s statutory guidelines. The state employs an “income shares” model, which aims to mirror the financial support a child would receive if both parents lived together.

Step-by-Step Child Support Breakdown

1. Calculate Each Parent’s Adjusted Monthly Gross Income

• Georgia law requires that child support is based on gross income, not net. This includes wages, salaries, bonuses, commissions, self-employment income, rental income, and more. Certain government benefits may be excluded.
• Qualifying deductions — such as pre-existing child support or alimony payments — are subtracted to arrive at the adjusted gross income.

2. Combine Both Parents’ Adjusted Gross Incomes

• The adjusted incomes are added together to determine the total combined monthly gross income.

3. Determine Each Parent’s Percentage Share

• Each parent’s adjusted income is divided by the combined total, establishing their proportional responsibility.

4. Apply the Georgia Child Support Table

• The state provides a table that outlines the basic child support obligation based on the combined income and number of children.

5. Allocate the Obligation

• The obligation is split according to each parent’s percentage share of the combined income.

6. Adjust for Deviations

• Judges may adjust the amount for factors such as health insurance, extraordinary medical expenses, child care costs, and parenting time.

For a detailed look at the official formula and to estimate your potential obligation, visit the Georgia Child Support Calculator.

Is Child Support Based on Gross or Net Income?

A frequent question is, “Is child support based on gross or net income?” In Georgia, the calculation is based on gross income — that is, income before taxes and most deductions. This approach is designed to ensure consistency and fairness, but it’s important to note that certain deductions (such as pre-existing child support orders or alimony) are factored in to arrive at the “adjusted gross income.”

Why is child support based on gross income? The rationale is to provide a standardized measure that reflects a parent’s true earning capacity, minimizing opportunities for manipulation.

What Determines Child Support Amount?

Several key factors influence how child support is calculated in Georgia:

• Income of Both Parents: All sources of gross income are considered.
• Parenting Time: The number of overnights each parent has with the child can affect the calculation.
• Deviations: Judges may adjust for health insurance, extraordinary expenses, or other special circumstances.
• Other Children: Support paid for children from other relationships can be deducted.
• Alimony: Alimony paid or received is factored in as a deviation.

The court retains discretion to deviate from the guideline amount when justified by the facts of the case. As the Georgia Child Support Commission notes, “The court can order more or less than the guideline award, as it sees appropriate.”

Recent Changes and Updates in Georgia Child Support Law

Georgia’s child support guidelines are periodically reviewed and updated. The most recent changes are effective through 2026, and a comprehensive modernization of the Child Support Calculator is expected in early 2025. These updates aim to improve the user experience and ensure the guidelines remain current with economic realities. For the latest updates, refer to the Georgia Child Support Commission.

Common Misconceptions About Child Support

At Hobson & Hobson, we often encounter misconceptions that can lead to confusion or unrealistic expectations:

• Misconception: Only the non-custodial parent pays child support.
• Reality: Either parent may be ordered to pay, depending on income and custody arrangements.
• Misconception: Child support is based on net income.
• Reality: Georgia uses gross income for calculations.
• Misconception: The guideline amount is always final.
• Reality: Judges can deviate from the guideline amount for good cause.

What Is Child Support Based On? Key Insights for Parents

• Transparency and Predictability: The process is formula-driven, but judges have discretion to ensure fairness.
• Documentation Is Critical: Complete and accurate financial disclosure is essential for a fair outcome.
• Parenting Time Matters: The number of overnights each parent has can significantly impact the support amount.
• Modification Is Possible: Child support orders can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a job loss or change in custody.

Professional Advice: Preparing for Your Child Support Case

With over 30 years of combined experience, our attorneys at Hobson & Hobson recommend:

• Gather All Income Documentation: Include pay stubs, tax returns, and records of any additional income.
• Use the Official Calculator: Estimate your obligation using the Georgia Child Support Calculator before court proceedings.
• Consult a Family Law Professional: Legal guidance ensures your rights and interests are protected, especially in complex or high-asset cases.

Unique Insights from Our Practice

• Income Disparity: Even if a parent has primary custody, they may still pay child support if their income is significantly higher than the other parent’s.
• Parenting Time Impact: The number of overnights can meaningfully affect the support amount, incentivizing fair parenting time arrangements.
• High-Asset and Complex Cases: Our firm’s special litigation training and technology-driven approach allow us to handle even the most challenging cases with efficiency and precision.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you determine how much child support to pay in Georgia?

Child support is determined using the income shares model, which considers the combined adjusted gross income of both parents and applies the state’s child support table. Adjustments may be made for health insurance, child care, and other factors.

Is child support based on household income?

No, child support is based on the combined gross income of the parents, not the entire household.

How often can child support be modified?

Child support orders can be reviewed and modified if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a change in income, job loss, or a substantial change in parenting time.

What if a parent is self-employed or has irregular income?

All sources of income, including self-employment and irregular earnings, must be disclosed and are factored into the calculation. Judges may average income over time to ensure fairness.

Where can I find the official formula for child support?

The official formula and calculator are available through the Georgia Child Support Commission and the Georgia Child Support Calculator.

Additional Resources

• Georgia Child Support Guidelines (O.C.G.A. § 19-6-15)
• Georgia Division of Child Support Services
• U.S. Department of Health & Human Services: Child Support
• Georgia Child Support Commission

At Hobson & Hobson, P.C., we are committed to helping you make informed, confident decisions about your family’s future. Our innovative, client-centric approach ensures that your rights and finances are protected — whether you are seeking an amicable resolution or require aggressive advocacy in court. To learn more or schedule a consultation, visit thehobsonlawfirm.com.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For guidance specific to your situation, please contact our office directly.

Sarah Hobson

Attorney Sarah Hobson at Hobson and Hobson, P.C. are powerful advocates for those who fight for better futures for those going through divorce and custody law matters.