Michigan uses an income shares model governed by the Michigan Child Support Formula (MCSF). The Friend of the Court (FOC) investigates and recommends support amounts. Both parents’ net incomes are combined to determine the obligation.
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Michigan calculates child support using the Income shares model with published formula manual established under MCL § 552.605 (Michigan Child Support Formula). 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 MCSF schedule based on combined net income and children. FOC recommends; parties can object within 21 days.
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, Michiganrequires 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: MCL § 552.605 (Michigan Child Support Formula)
Approximate percentages: 1 child = 17%, 2 = 25%, 3 = 30%, 4 = 33%, 5+ = 36%.
No explicit income cap — FOC has discretion at high income levels.
Both parents’ net incomes combined.
FOC system investigates and makes recommendations to the judge.
Friend of the Court (FOC) is a unique Michigan institution that investigates, recommends, and enforces court orders.
State/municipal pensions (including MERS) require EDRO (Eligible Domestic Relations Order), not QDRO.
MCL § 552.101: every divorce judgment MUST address retirement benefits.
Answer a few questions about your income, custody, and children. Get your personalized estimate.
Residency Requirement
180 days state + 10 days county (MCL § 552.9)
Mandatory Waiting Period
60 days (no minor children) / 180 days (with minor children, waivable)
No-Fault Ground
Breakdown of the marriage relationship to the extent that the objects of matrimony have been destroyed
State Income Tax
Flat 4.25%, some cities have additional local income tax (Detroit 2.4%)
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Michigan uses the Income shares model with published formula manual under MCL § 552.605 (Michigan Child Support Formula). Michigan uses an income shares model governed by the Michigan Child Support Formula (MCSF). The Friend of the Court (FOC) investigates and recommends support amounts. Both parents’ net incomes are combined to determine the obligation.
Key factors include both parents' income, the number of children, custodial time share, mandatory add-on expenses (childcare, health insurance), and any applicable deductions. Approximate percentages: 1 child = 17%, 2 = 25%, 3 = 30%, 4 = 33%, 5+ = 36%.
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 MCSF schedule based on combined net income and children. FOC recommends; parties can object within 21 days.
Get a personalized child support calculation based on Michigan's actual statutory formula.
Start My Free MichiganEstimate →This tool provides educational estimates based on Michigan 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 Michigan family law attorney before making decisions. Primary statute: MCL § 552.605 (Michigan Child Support Formula).