Maine Child Support Calculator
Parent Information (Monthly Gross Income)
Children, Custody & Weekly Expenses
Guideline Support Estimate
What is the Maine Child Support Calculator?
The Maine Child Support Calculator is an online tool that helps parents estimate child support payments based on the Maine Child Support Guidelines.
It’s designed to give you a weekly payment estimate by taking into account:
- Each parent’s monthly gross income
- Number of children
- Parenting arrangement (standard custody or shared custody)
- Child-related expenses like health insurance and childcare costs
Important: This calculator provides an estimate only. Courts may consider other factors, and the actual child support order could be different. Always seek legal advice if you have questions about your situation.
How the Calculator Works
The calculator follows Maine’s official child support formula, which is based on both parents’ combined income and the number of children. Here’s a breakdown of how it calculates support:
- Income Conversion – The calculator takes the monthly gross income you enter for each parent and converts it to a weekly figure.
- Combined Income – It adds both parents’ weekly income together to determine the family’s total support base.
- Child Support Obligation – Using Maine’s support schedule, it finds the basic weekly support amount for the number of children.
- Percentage Share – Each parent’s share of the total obligation is based on their share of the combined income.
- Custody Adjustment – The calculation changes depending on whether custody is standard (one parent has primary care) or shared (equal or nearly equal parenting time).
- Expenses Added – Weekly health insurance premiums and childcare costs are factored in before finalizing the support estimate.
- Payment Estimate – The tool shows who pays whom and the weekly amount.
Key Features of the Calculator
Easy-to-use form – Enter income, expenses, and custody details in a simple step-by-step layout.
Accurate guideline-based math – Built on Maine’s official child support schedule.
Instant results – Get a payment estimate immediately.
Reset option – Clear the form and start fresh whenever you need.
Example Calculation
Let’s look at a quick example:
- Parent A income: $4,500/month
- Parent B income: $3,500/month
- Number of children: 2
- Custody type: Standard
- Weekly childcare costs: $100
- Weekly health insurance: $50
Based on these numbers, the calculator will show who is the paying parent and the estimated weekly child support payment.
This gives parents a realistic idea of what to expect, even before going to court.
Why This Calculator Matters
Child support isn’t just a legal obligation—it’s about ensuring children have the resources they need. But calculating it manually from state tables can be frustrating and time-consuming.
This tool simplifies the process. It helps:
- Parents planning custody arrangements
- Attorneys explaining options to clients
- Families wanting quick answers before mediation or court
By giving a clear estimate, the calculator reduces uncertainty and helps parents focus on what really matters: raising their kids.
Limitations to Keep in Mind
While the Maine Child Support Calculator is powerful, there are limits:
- It’s based on guideline estimates—real court orders may differ.
- Judges can consider special circumstances (like medical needs or extraordinary expenses).
- It is not legal advice and should not replace guidance from a qualified family law attorney.
Try the Maine Child Support Calculator
Use the calculator below to see an estimate tailored to your situation. Just enter your details, click Calculate, and view your weekly support estimate instantly.