The 7 Key Figures Used to Calculate Child Support in Arizona

When parents in Arizona go through a divorce or custody case, one of the biggest questions is:

How is child support calculated?

Arizona uses a standardized formula under the Arizona Child Support Guidelines. While each case has unique circumstances, there are seven figures that are always required to run the calculation. Understanding these numbers can help parents prepare for realistic outcomes and avoid surprises.

1 & 2. Income of Both Parents

The foundation of child support begins with each parent’s gross income. This can include:

• Wages, salary, and tips
• Bonuses, commissions, and overtime
• Self-employment earnings
• Other sources such as rental income or pensions

The higher your income, the larger your share of financial responsibility for the child.

3. Other Minor Children

If a parent has other minor children they are legally responsible for supporting, this acts as a deduction from their income. If the children live with the parent, then the formula deducts a certain amount based on their income. If the parent pays child support for the other children, then the amount of child support will be deducted.

This adjustment recognizes that a parent’s financial obligations extend beyond just the children involved in the current case.

4. Spousal Maintenance

Spousal maintenance (alimony) is factored into the calculation:

• For the paying parent, it reduces their income.
• For the receiving parent, it increases their income.

This ensures the calculation reflects each parent’s true ability to contribute.

5. Parenting Time Schedule

Arizona child support takes into account the number of parenting days each parent has under their parenting plan.

• The more time a parent spends with the children, the greater their financial contribution through direct care.
• This can reduce their child support obligation.

6. Health Insurance Expenses for the Children

If a parent pays for the child’s health insurance, that cost is credited in the child support calculation. However, only the cost for insuring children is included and not the total cost to insure the family.

This ensures the parent paying for medical coverage gets financial recognition for their contribution. The parent who does not pay for health insurance either pays their portion through additional child support paid or a reduction in child support received.

7. Childcare Expenses

Childcare costs — such as daycare or after-school care — are also included. The parent who pays these expenses receives a credit, reducing their overall child support obligation, or a reduction in child support received.

Extraordinary Expenses (Occasionally Included)

While not always present, some cases involve extraordinary expenses, such as:

• Special medical needs
• Educational costs
• Extracurricular activities

These can be factored in at the court’s discretion but are not part of every case.

Why These 7 Figures Matter

Together, these seven figures create a balanced calculation that reflects:

• Each parent’s financial ability
• The time each parent spends with the children
• Additional costs for healthcare and childcare

By using this formula, Arizona aims to ensure child support is fair, consistent, and adequate for the child’s needs.

Need Help With Child Support in Arizona?

At Arsenal Law, we guide parents through child support calculations and advocate for fair results. Whether you’re establishing, modifying, or enforcing child support, we can help you understand the numbers and protect your family’s future.

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