Sources we use
We use only primary, official sources: state statutes and administrative codes on the legislatures’ own websites, court rules, official child support schedules and worksheets published by state courts and child support agencies, and federal rules such as 45 CFR 302.56. We do not use law-firm blogs, private calculators or forums as sources of fact.
How calculators are checked
Every calculator uses published, standard formulas. The code is covered by automated tests that check known answers (for example, a Texas parent with $5,000 a month in net resources and one child has a guideline amount of 20%, or $1,000 a month, under Texas Family Code §154.125). We show the formula next to each tool so anyone can verify the result by hand.
What we will not publish
- Advertising or referral links for law firms, attorneys or document services.
- Predictions of what a particular judge will order, or advice about a specific case.
- Claims we cannot support with a source.
Updates and corrections
Each page shows the date it was last updated. States update their schedules, income caps and low-income figures on their own calendars (some every year, all at least every four years). When a state publishes a change, we update the formula, the tests and the page date. If you find an error, tell us through the contact page and we will review it and correct it.