Child Support in Washington: How It's Calculated
Washington uses the Income Shares Model (Economic Table — RCW 26.19) to determine child support obligations. This guide walks through how the formula works, what factors Washington courts consider, and how to modify or enforce an order — with links to official Washington resources.
Income Shares Model (Economic Table — RCW 26.19) in Washington
Washington uses the Income Shares Model, specifically an economic table approach under RCW 26.19. Both parents' combined monthly net income is applied to the Washington State Support Schedule to determine a basic obligation, which is then allocated based on each parent's share of income.
Washington's support schedule includes a standard residential credit already built into the table (based on the standard parenting plan). If the non-primary parent has substantially more or less time than the standard, an adjustment is applied. Washington uses net income (after taxes and mandatory deductions). Washington's law also provides specific provisions for residential schedules allocating significant time to each parent.
Key Factors Washington Courts Consider
- Both parents' combined monthly net income
- Number of children
- Residential schedule — deviation from standard schedule triggers an adjustment
- Child's health insurance costs
- Work-related childcare expenses
- Extraordinary expenses for the child
- Prior support obligations
Official Washington Resources
Get an accurate number from an official source
Child support calculations are complex and fact-specific. For an accurate figure, use Washington's official worksheet or consult a licensed family law attorney. This guide explains the framework — it does not produce a binding calculation.
Step-by-Step: How Washington's Formula Works
Here is how Washington applies the Income Shares Model (Economic Table — RCW 26.19) to calculate a child support obligation, step by step:
1. Determine each parent's income
Washington starts by calculating each parent's income — net income (after taxes and mandatory deductions). The specific definition of income is set by Income Shares Model (Economic Table — RCW 26.19).
2. Combine incomes and find the basic obligation
Both parents' incomes are combined and compared to Washington's child support schedule. The schedule produces a basic child support obligation based on combined income and the number of children.
3. Add health insurance and childcare costs
Health insurance premiums paid for the child and work-related childcare expenses are added to the basic obligation before it is divided between parents.
4. Divide proportionally based on income share
The total obligation is allocated between the parents in proportion to each parent's share of combined income. The parent with the higher income share bears a larger portion of the obligation.
5. Apply parenting time credits
If the non-primary parent exercises significant parenting time, a credit may reduce the obligation.
Document Everything for Your Washington Case
Washington courts rely on documented records — parenting time logs, expense receipts, and payment histories. ReplyCalmly helps you track all of it and generate organized, exportable reports.
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