Child Support in New York

New York calculates child support under the Child Support Standards Act (CSSA), found in DRL §240 and the Family Court Act §413. The formula applies set percentages to combined parental income.

The guideline percentages are seventeen percent for one child, twenty-five percent for two, twenty-nine percent for three, thirty-one percent for four, and at least thirty-five percent for five or more children.

The paying parent's share is based on their portion of the combined parental income. We help you understand how your income and your co-parent's income factor into the calculation.

Beyond the basic percentage, the CSSA addresses add-on expenses. These commonly include work-related childcare, unreimbursed medical costs, and health insurance coverage for the child.

Courts may also address educational expenses, including private school or college costs, depending on the family's circumstances and the children's needs.

Add-ons are typically shared between parents in proportion to their incomes. We make sure these costs are accounted for accurately, so the order reflects your child's true needs.

When a parent fails to pay court-ordered support, New York provides enforcement tools. Family Court can hear violation petitions and impose remedies for nonpayment.

Enforcement measures can include income withholding, interception of tax refunds, suspension of licenses, and money judgments for arrears. Willful nonpayment can carry serious consequences.

If you are owed support, we help you pursue enforcement. If you have fallen behind, we help you respond appropriately and seek a workable path forward.

Child support orders can be modified when circumstances change. New York permits modification upon a substantial change in circumstances, or in certain cases after a set period or a meaningful change in either parent's income.

Common reasons for modification include job loss, a significant income increase, or changes in the child's needs.

Modifications must go through the proper court process. We help you file or respond to a modification request and present the financial picture clearly.