Ohio uses an income shares model based on combined gross income (unlike NJ which uses net). A basic child support obligation is determined from the published schedule (§3119.021). Each parent pays a pro rata share. Extended parenting time (90+ overnights) triggers a credit.
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Ohio calculates child support using the Income shares model on combined gross income established under O.R.C. Chapter 3119. 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 gross annual 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, Ohiorequires 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: O.R.C. Chapter 3119
Basic Child Support Schedule (§3119.021) covers up to $336,000/year ($28,000/month) combined gross.
Above $336,000/year: court discretion.
90+ overnights/year for obligor: extended parenting time credit up to 10% reduction (§3119.051).
Minimum: $50/month per child.
Health insurance and work-related childcare added to basic obligation, split proportionally.
Ohio uses GROSS income for child support (unlike most states that use net).
Ohio public pensions (OPERS, STRS, SERS) require plan-specific DROs, not federal QDROs.
Dissolution vs. divorce: dissolution requires full agreement and joint filing.
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Residency Requirement
6 months residency in Ohio (§3105.03)
Mandatory Waiting Period
No mandatory waiting period for divorce; dissolution (agreed) can be 30–90 days
No-Fault Ground
Incompatibility or living separate and apart for 1+ year
State Income Tax
Progressive 0–3.5% (post-2023 reform), plus local/municipal income tax typically 1–2.5%
Ohio uses the Income shares model on combined gross income under O.R.C. Chapter 3119. Ohio uses an income shares model based on combined gross income (unlike NJ which uses net). A basic child support obligation is determined from the published schedule (§3119.021). Each parent pays a pro rata share. Extended parenting time (90+ overnights) triggers a credit.
Key factors include both parents' income, the number of children, custodial time share, mandatory add-on expenses (childcare, health insurance), and any applicable deductions. Basic Child Support Schedule (§3119.021) covers up to $336,000/year ($28,000/month) combined gross.
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 gross annual income and number of children. Each parent's share = pro rata based on income percentage.
Get a personalized child support calculation based on Ohio's actual statutory formula.
Start My Free OhioEstimate →This tool provides educational estimates based on Ohio 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 Ohio family law attorney before making decisions. Primary statute: O.R.C. Chapter 3119.