Maryland uses an income shares model based on combined adjusted actual income. A basic support obligation is determined from a published schedule. Each parent pays a pro rata share.
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Maryland calculates child support using the Income shares model established under Md. Code, Family Law §12-204. 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 published schedule based on combined income and number of 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, Marylandrequires 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: Md. Code, Family Law §12-204
Income shares model based on combined adjusted actual income.
Published schedule covers combined incomes up to a statutory cap.
Health insurance and childcare added to basic obligation.
Shared custody adjustment for substantial parenting time.
Maryland courts generally CANNOT transfer title of property held solely in one spouse's name — awards monetary payment instead.
Alimony must be requested BEFORE or AT TIME of divorce — cannot request after.
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Residency Requirement
6 months (1 year if grounds arose outside Maryland)
Mandatory Waiting Period
No mandatory waiting period; 6-month separation requirement for separation ground (Oct 2025)
No-Fault Ground
Mutual consent (with agreement), 6-month separation, or irreconcilable differences (Oct 2025 reform)
State Income Tax
Progressive 2–5.75% plus local county tax approximately 3% (effective combined 6–8%)
Maryland uses the Income shares model under Md. Code, Family Law §12-204. Maryland uses an income shares model based on combined adjusted actual income. A basic support obligation is determined from a published schedule. 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 based on combined adjusted actual 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 published schedule based on combined income and number of children. Each parent's share = pro rata based on income percentage.
Get a personalized child support calculation based on Maryland's actual statutory formula.
Start My Free MarylandEstimate →This tool provides educational estimates based on Maryland 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 Maryland family law attorney before making decisions. Primary statute: Md. Code, Family Law §12-204.