Question 1

How is child support calculated in Tennessee?

Accepted Answer

Tennessee uses a percentage of income model to calculate child support. The court considers the non-custodial parent's net monthly income and applies predetermined percentages based on the number of children. Additional expenses like child care and health insurance are shared proportionally between parents.

Question 2

What is the percentage of income model in Tennessee?

Accepted Answer

The percentage of income model calculates child support as a percentage of the non-custodial parent's net monthly income. Tennessee uses fixed percentages: 21% for 1 child, 32% for 2 children, 41% for 3 children, 46% for 4 children, and 50% for 5 children.

Question 3

What factors affect Tennessee child support calculations?

Accepted Answer

Key factors include the non-custodial parent's net monthly income, number of children, child care expenses, health insurance costs, other children not subject to the order, and parenting time arrangements. The court may also consider special circumstances and deviations from guidelines.

Question 4

How does parenting time affect child support in Tennessee?

Accepted Answer

Significant parenting time (typically 92+ days per year) may result in adjustments to child support. The non-custodial parent's support obligation may be reduced based on the amount of parenting time they have with the children.

Question 5

What income is considered for Tennessee child support?

Accepted Answer

Tennessee considers net income after taxes, Social Security, Medicare, and other mandatory deductions. This includes wages, salaries, bonuses, commissions, self-employment income, rental income, and other sources of income.

Question 6

Can Tennessee child support orders be modified?

Accepted Answer

Yes, child support orders can be modified when there's a significant change in circumstances, such as a substantial change in the non-custodial parent's income, changes in the child's needs, or changes in parenting time arrangements.

Question 7

How often should Tennessee child support be reviewed?

Accepted Answer

Child support orders should be reviewed every 3 years or when there's a significant change in circumstances. Either parent can request a review and modification if their financial situation has changed substantially.

Question 8

What happens if a parent doesn't pay child support in Tennessee?

Accepted Answer

Tennessee has various enforcement mechanisms including wage garnishment, driver's license suspension, passport denial, tax refund interception, and contempt of court proceedings. The Tennessee Department of Human Services can also assist with enforcement.

Question 9

Are there exceptions to Tennessee child support guidelines?

Accepted Answer

Yes, courts may deviate from guidelines in cases involving high-income parents, shared parenting arrangements, or special circumstances like extraordinary medical expenses or educational costs. The court must provide written justification for any deviation.

Question 10

How long does child support last in Tennessee?

Accepted Answer

Child support typically ends when the child turns 18 and graduates from high school, or when the child turns 19, whichever occurs first. However, support may continue for children with special needs or in certain educational situations.

Tennessee Child Support Calculator - TN Child Support Guidelines & Percentage of Income Model

Child Support Calculation

Quick Example Result

Frequently Asked Questions

Found This Calculator Helpful?

Related Calculators