Calculating child support in New Jersey follows a structured formula based on the combined income of both parents.

the number of children, their ages, and the amount of overnights with each parent. There must also be a determination as to which parent is the Primary Residential Parent (“PPR”) and the Parent of the Alternate Residence (“PAR).  Understanding how child support is calculated can help both PPR  and PAR prepare for their financial responsibilities and ensure fair contributions toward their child’s well-being.  The standard guidelines apply up to a gross annual income of $187,200.  When the combined (or individual) income exceeds the $187,200 annual amount, the Court will review the calculation as an above the guidelines calculation which this article does not address.  An above the guidelines child support calculation will be applied when either (or both) parents exceed $187,200 per year.  There are additional factors which may apply in an above the guidelines child support calculation and obligation.

In New Jersey, the Court has the discretion to determine the appropriate level of support, and it may deviate from the guidelines to ensure a child’s best interests are met.  However, in a more typical example, the first step in calculating child support is determining each parent’s weekly gross income. This includes wages, salaries, bonuses, and other sources of income. From this gross amount, standard payroll deductions—such as federal and state taxes, Social Security, and Medicare—are subtracted to arrive at each parent’s net weekly income.

Once both parents’ net weekly incomes are established, those two figures are added together to calculate the total combined net income. The next step in calculating child support is to determine each parent’s percentage contribution to that combined income. For example, if one parent earns $700 per week and the other earns $300, their total combined income is $1,000. The $700 earner contributes 70% of the household income, while the $300 earner contributes 30%.