Virginia Child Support Basics: A Complete Guide for Parents
Virginia Child Support Basics: A Complete Guide for Parents
Navigating child support in Virginia can be overwhelming, especially with recent 2025 updates expanding guidelines. This guide breaks down the essentials: what child support covers, how it’s calculated, and your rights as a parent. Whether you’re establishing a new order or modifying an existing one, understanding these basics ensures your child’s needs are met fairly. For the latest changes, see our overview of 2025 Virginia family law updates.
What Does Child Support Cover in Virginia?
Under Virginia Code § 20-108.2, child support primarily funds a child’s basic needs, including housing, food, clothing, education, and healthcare. It typically does not cover one-time expenses like extracurricular activities or private school unless specified in the order. Those can be considered as “deviations” once the guideline amount of child support is calculated. Courts often use an income-share model, which assumes both parents contribute proportionally to such expenses. Alternatively, where an activity isn’t agreed upon by the parents, courts will permit the child’s participation in the activity, but require the parent requesting the child’s participation o pay for it.
- Basic Obligation: Daily living expenses based on combined parental income.
- Adjustments: Add-ons for health insurance, childcare, and special needs.
- Duration: Typically until age 18 and high school graduation or age 19, whichever is earlier.
- Deviations considered once guideline amount is calculated.
How to Calculate Child Support in Virginia: Step-by-Step
Calculating child support involves the official Virginia guidelines worksheet. Here’s a simplified breakdown—for precise figures, consult an attorney or use the state’s online calculator.
| Step | Details |
| 1. Determine Gross Incomes | Include income from all sources (wages, bonuses, and imputed income for unemployed or under-employed parents) |
| 2. Calculate Basic Obligation |
Use the published tables: For example, $10,000 combined monthly income and 2 children, ~$1,800 total support. |
| 3. Allocate Shares | Divide based on each parent’s income percentage (e.g., 60/40 split). |
| 4. Add Adjustments | Prorate costs like $300/month childcare: 60% from higher earner. |
Link to the 2025 Child Support tables can be found here: Child Support Tables
Modifying Child Support: When and How?
“Material changes in circumstance” may warrant a modification. Those can include significant changes in income, custody, or a child’s needs (e.g., a child’s medical condition). If you need to modify the child support obligation, you can file a petition in the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court or Circuit Court.
FAQs: Virginia Child Support Basics
What is the average child support payment in Virginia?
Likely around $400-800/month per child, but it varies by income and the number of children.
