Colorado uses an income shares model based on both parents’ adjusted gross incomes. A basic support obligation is determined from a published schedule. Each parent pays a pro rata share. Parenting time adjustments apply for substantial overnights.
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Colorado calculates child support using the Income shares model established under C.R.S. § 14-10-115. This is a statutory formula that leaves limited room for judicial discretion on the base calculation amount, ensuring consistency and predictability for families across the state.
Basic obligation from Colorado schedule based on combined adjusted gross income and children. Each parent's share = pro rata based on income percentage.
The calculation begins with determining each parent's net disposable income, which includes virtually all sources of income minus taxes, mandatory payroll deductions, and certain hardship deductions. The court then applies the statutory formula using the time each parent has primary physical responsibility for the children and the applicable income allocation brackets.
Beyond the base formula amount, Coloradorequires additional contributions for mandatory add-on expenses. These typically include childcare costs necessary for the custodial parent's employment or education, uninsured healthcare expenses for the children, and in some cases, educational and travel costs. These add-ons are split between parents in proportion to their respective incomes.
Primary statute: C.R.S. § 14-10-115
Income shares model using adjusted gross income.
Published schedule based on combined income and number of children.
Parenting time adjustment for substantial overnights.
Health insurance and childcare added, split proportionally.
Colorado has a detailed spousal maintenance advisory guideline with formula.
Pure no-fault state — fault is irrelevant.
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Residency Requirement
91 days residency (C.R.S. § 14-10-106)
Mandatory Waiting Period
91-day waiting period after service (co-petition may shorten)
No-Fault Ground
Irretrievable breakdown (pure no-fault)
State Income Tax
Flat 4.4% (2024 reform)
Colorado uses the Income shares model under C.R.S. § 14-10-115. Colorado uses an income shares model based on both parents’ adjusted gross incomes. A basic support obligation is determined from a published schedule. Each parent pays a pro rata share. Parenting time adjustments apply for substantial overnights.
Key factors include both parents' income, the number of children, custodial time share, mandatory add-on expenses (childcare, health insurance), and any applicable deductions. Income shares model using adjusted gross income.
Yes. Either parent can request a modification if there has been a material change in circumstances, such as a significant change in income, custody arrangements, or the needs of the child. The court will recalculate support using the same statutory formula.
Basic obligation from Colorado schedule based on combined adjusted gross income and children. Each parent's share = pro rata based on income percentage.
Get a personalized child support calculation based on Colorado's actual statutory formula.
Start My Free ColoradoEstimate →This tool provides educational estimates based on Colorado family law and does not constitute legal advice. Child support calculations are approximations of the statutory formula and may differ from court-ordered amounts. Consult a licensed Colorado family law attorney before making decisions. Primary statute: C.R.S. § 14-10-115.