Kentucky uses an income shares model based on combined adjusted parental gross income. A basic support obligation is determined from published guidelines. Each parent pays a pro rata share.
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Kentucky calculates child support using the Income shares model on combined adjusted parental gross income established under KRS 403.212. 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 Kentucky guidelines schedule. 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, Kentuckyrequires 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: KRS 403.212
Income shares model using combined adjusted parental gross income.
Published guidelines schedule.
Shared custody adjustment for substantial parenting time.
Health insurance and childcare added to basic obligation.
Kentucky is a pure no-fault state — fault is irrelevant to all aspects of divorce.
Uses "dissolution of marriage" terminology.
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Residency Requirement
180 days residency
Mandatory Waiting Period
60-day waiting period after filing
No-Fault Ground
Irretrievable breakdown (pure no-fault — KRS 403.170)
State Income Tax
Flat 4% (2024 reform)
Kentucky uses the Income shares model on combined adjusted parental gross income under KRS 403.212. Kentucky uses an income shares model based on combined adjusted parental gross income. A basic support obligation is determined from published guidelines. Each parent pays a pro rata share.
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 combined adjusted parental 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 Kentucky guidelines schedule. Each parent's share = pro rata based on income percentage.
Get a personalized child support calculation based on Kentucky's actual statutory formula.
Start My Free KentuckyEstimate →This tool provides educational estimates based on Kentucky 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 Kentucky family law attorney before making decisions. Primary statute: KRS 403.212.